The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) in Guwahati recorded a notable jump in air traffic in the first quarter of FY2025.
According to official data, the airport handled over 18 lakh passengers between April and June 2025. This marks a double-digit year-on-year increase, highlighting the airport’s growing regional importance and improved connectivity.
Passenger and Aircraft Movement Rise Sharply
In Q1 of the current fiscal, LGBIA witnessed a 19% growth in passenger footfall, crossing the 18.23 lakh mark, compared to 15.27 lakh in the same period last year.
Aircraft movements also saw a significant uptick. The number of take-offs and landings jumped from 11,260 in Q1 FY24 to 13,470 in Q1 FY25, a rise of 19.6%.
This growth was supported by increased tourist inflow, improved flight frequency, and better air infrastructure in the region.
Expansion and Better Connectivity
LGBIA, managed by the Adani Group, is undergoing a phase of modernization and capacity enhancement.
More direct routes, especially to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, have helped improve both domestic and regional air travel.
The airport now connects Guwahati to more than 30 domestic destinations and multiple international routes including Bangkok and Singapore.
The Adani Group’s website highlights Guwahati Airport’s role as the “gateway to the Northeast,” stressing its importance in India’s regional aviation plans.
Role of the Northeast Tourism Push
The impressive figures also mirror the Assam government’s push to boost tourism.
Major festivals like Rongali Bihu, coupled with improved hotel infrastructure, have made Guwahati a preferred travel hub.
The Northeast’s scenic destinations such as Kaziranga, Majuli, and Meghalaya’s Cherrapunji have also contributed to this uptick.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation’s UDAN scheme (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) has played a pivotal role in enhancing air connectivity in remote and underserved areas. You can learn more about UDAN through the government’s official portal.
Cargo and Freight Movement Also Up
Alongside passengers, Guwahati Airport’s cargo division saw a rise in freight volume.
The airport handled over 3,800 tonnes of cargo in Q1 FY25, up from 3,120 tonnes last year. The surge is attributed to the rise in e-commerce, pharmaceutical shipments, and perishable goods.
Improved cold storage and warehousing facilities have supported this upward trend, enhancing the airport’s role in the regional logistics network.
LGBIA’s Future Vision
Officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Adani Group have reiterated their commitment to developing LGBIA into a full-scale regional hub.
A new terminal is under construction to expand capacity. Once complete, the airport is expected to handle over 60 lakh passengers annually, a significant leap from current numbers.
There are also plans for enhanced international connectivity, which will allow the airport to handle larger aircraft and more global routes.
Economic Impact and Employment
The growth in airport traffic directly supports Assam’s economy. More flights mean more jobs—from ground handling and maintenance to tourism, retail, and hospitality.
Local entrepreneurs also benefit from increased footfall, including handicraft sellers, cab services, and tour operators.
A Bright Outlook Ahead
If the current trend continues, Guwahati Airport could surpass its all-time high traffic by the end of FY25.
The combination of strategic location, government support, and private investment has created a model for other airports in Northeast India to follow.
As regional tourism, logistics, and business travel increase, Guwahati stands at the forefront of India’s next aviation success story.