Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (LGBI) Airport has posted impressive growth in the first quarter of FY 2025–26.
The airport recorded a major jump in both passenger footfall and flight operations. This growth underscores the rising demand for air connectivity in Assam and the broader Northeast region.
According to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), LGBI handled over 12.5 lakh passengers from April to June 2025.
That’s a 23% increase compared to the same period last year.
Flight operations also soared with over 9,200 aircraft movements, marking a 19% year-on-year rise.
These numbers solidify LGBI’s role as the primary aviation hub in Northeast India.
Rising Demand in Air Travel Across Northeast
The increase in air traffic reflects the growing preference for air travel in the region.
Improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and strong tourism and business activity are driving the surge.
The success of UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) and central schemes focused on regional air connectivity have played a key role.
LGBI is currently connected to 22 domestic destinations and three international ones.
Flights to Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Imphal, and Mumbai remain among the most frequented.
International operations to Bangkok, Singapore, and Dhaka have also contributed to the airport’s upward trajectory.
LGBI Expansion Fuelling Growth
The airport’s ongoing infrastructure upgrades have boosted its capacity and efficiency. Terminal expansions, better passenger amenities, and enhanced runway capabilities are delivering results.
A senior official at the AAI Guwahati division said the new integrated terminal, expected to open by 2026, will handle over 10 million passengers annually.
This will cater to increasing passenger traffic well into the next decade.
Additionally, more night landing facilities and improved air traffic control systems are being installed.
These efforts aim to attract more airlines and introduce new domestic and international routes.
Airline Operators Respond Positively
Airline operators have acknowledged Guwahati’s growing prominence. IndiGo, Akasa Air, Air India, and Vistara have already increased flight frequencies on high-demand routes.
International carriers are also exploring partnerships to expand service offerings.
An Akasa Air spokesperson noted, “Guwahati is one of our fastest-growing sectors in East India. We’re closely watching the regional travel trends to expand operations further.”
Tour operators, too, are optimistic.
They see more footfall from both tourists and professionals seeking quick access to the scenic Northeast.
A Gateway to the Northeast
LGBI Airport acts as a crucial link between the Northeast and the rest of India.
For states like Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram, Guwahati remains the air travel lifeline.
With robust growth indicators, the airport is now being positioned as a logistics and cargo hub as well.
The state government, in coordination with the Centre, is reportedly working to develop freight corridors linking the airport with border trade points and industrial parks.
This is in line with India’s Act East Policy to enhance connectivity with Southeast Asia.
Looking Ahead
The consistent performance of Guwahati’s LGBI Airport sends a strong message about the region’s rising potential.
As infrastructure projects continue and more routes open, the airport is expected to break more records in the coming quarters.
The first quarter of FY 2025–26 serves as a clear indicator that the skies over the Northeast are growing busier—and brighter.
Call to Action:
For more updates on aviation and infrastructure in Northeast India, follow our transportation news section.
Also, check out how the UDAN scheme is transforming regional air connectivity.
Stay tuned for exclusive insights into airport expansions, flight operations, and tourism growth across Assam and beyond.

