Bengaluru: Kempegowda International Airport recorded a robust passenger traffic growth in 2025–26 by handling nearly 44.5 million flyers, registering a 6.2% rise year-on-year.According to the KIA operator Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), international traffic emerged as the key driver, increasing by 23.9% to 7.2 million passengers, while domestic traffic grew by a modest 3.3% to 37.2 million. The steady rise comes amid global uncertainties.In terms of transit passengers, KIA’s two terminals together saw an approximate 22% increase compared to 2024-25, which contributed to 15% of the total traffic.While domestic transfers remain the most established segment, growing at approximately 3.2%, international transfers are expanding at over 50%, reflecting significant long-term potential.During the last fiscal, new international destinations such as Hanoi and Riyadh were opened. Key destinations such as London Heathrow, Bangkok, Bahrain, Jeddah, Phuket, Kuwait, Kathmandu, Munich and Mauritius saw increased frequency, BIAL stated.Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, London Heathrow and Kuala Lumpur were the most popular international destinations, while Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Pune remained the top domestic sectors. The domestic network also saw additions of Navi Mumbai, Jaisalmer, Bidar, Silchar and Dimapur airports.Cargo business recorded a rise of 6% with 5.3 lakh tonnes of goods transported. Mango exports grew 12% to a five-year high, while coriander volumes increased 13% year-on-year.
