Domestic passenger traffic crossed pre-Covid levels whereas international passenger traffic recovery stands at 84% in the past two months
Total air passenger traffic recovery stood at 97% of pre-Covid levels in January 2023
New Delhi: Domestic passenger traffic crossed the pre-covid levels for the second consecutive month in January 2023 supported by weddings and the holiday season. Despite the covid scare, domestic traffic stood at 25.0 million, 101% of pre-Covid levels (similar period in FY2020) in January 2023. Overall, the recovery in domestic passenger traffic has been strong since April 2022, supported by the easing of travel restrictions, resilient passenger demand, reopening of offices, and an increase in business and leisure travel. Post resumption of international commercial operations from March 27, 2022, international passenger traffic has steadily increased and reached 84% of pre- Covid levels in January 2023. International traffic remained steady at 5.5 million in January 2023 (+118% YOY). Overall passenger traffic stood at 30.4 million, a 99% YoY growth, and stood at 97% of pre-Covid-levels in January 2023.
Giving more insights, Mr. Vinay Kumar G, Vice President, Corporate Ratings, ICRA, said: “Passenger traffic is expected to sustain the healthy growth momentum backed by resilient passenger demand along with the resumption of business travel. With a strong rebound and healthy momentum in domestic passenger traffic and the uptick in international passenger, the overall air passenger traffic is expected to grow by 71-73% and reach 324- 327 million (95-96% of pre-Covid levels) in FY2023. ICRA expects overall domestic passenger traffic to remain above the pre-Covid levels (FY2020) in the ensuing months and international traffic to reach 87%-90% of pre-Covid levels by March 2023. Supported by passenger traffic, the aircraft traffic is likely to display a 45-47% YoY growth and reach pre-Covid levels during FY2023.”
