Surat — Surat Airport has seen a significant uptick in international passengers, recording an 84% increase in the last seven months alone. The airport currently operates only one international route to Sharjah, which has witnessed a substantial growth in passenger traffic.
The Passenger Load Factor (PLF) has also shown a steady rise, moving from 58% between January to July 2019 to 67% in 2022 and reaching 84% in 2023. These statistics reflect an expanding international passenger base for Surat Airport, signaling its growing importance as a global aviation hub.
Sharjah-Surat Traffic Sees a Spike
In 2022, Surat Airport facilitated the movement of 237 aircraft, carrying 29,425 international passengers. By contrast, the first seven months of 2023 have already seen 29,682 international passengers arriving via 190 aircraft movements. This figure includes both traditional Sharjah-Surat flights and chartered flights from non-traditional international destinations.
Anticipating Further Growth
A significant factor expected to drive future growth is the upcoming launch of the Surat Diamond Bourse. IndiGo is currently offering morning flights from Surat with single PNR tickets for Virgin Atlantic and Air France through a codeshare agreement. Passengers will soon find Surat Airport displayed prominently near boarding gates.
"With the anticipated opening of the Surat Diamond Bourse, we expect even more international flights to operate out of Surat," said an airport spokesperson.
The increasing passenger load and upcoming infrastructural developments are setting the stage for Surat Airport's expansion and its ascent as a significant player in international aviation.
