For many Indians, air travel remains a cherished dream, representing speed, convenience, and a touch of luxury. This dream is becoming a reality for millions, driven by evolving lifestyles and a growing preference for flying. India’s domestic aviation industry is expanding at a robust pace, as evidenced by the latest data from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
According to DGCA’s October 2024 report, domestic air passenger traffic increased by 5.3%, with 1.36 crore passengers flying across the country. This growth highlights the rising aspirations of common citizens and their increasing reliance on air travel for convenience and connectivity.
IndiGo’s Dominance Continues
IndiGo, the country’s largest airline, carried 86.40 lakh passengers in October 2024, achieving a market share of 63.3%. This dominance underlines IndiGo’s ability to provide efficient services and wide network coverage, making it the preferred choice for many travelers.
Tata Group’s Transformative Mergers
Air India and Vistara have also played a significant role in the domestic aviation sector. In October, Air India and its subsidiary AIX Connect merged with Air India Express, forming the airline’s low-cost arm. Similarly, on November 12, Vistara, previously a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, merged into Air India, creating a stronger, unified full-service carrier.
Combined, Air India (including Air India Express) and Vistara accounted for 28.5% of domestic passenger traffic in October 2024. The consolidated Tata Group airlines are now poised to provide both luxury and budget-friendly options to Indian flyers.
Performance of Other Airlines
Other airlines also contributed to the sector’s growth.
- SpiceJet: 3.35 lakh passengers, securing 2.4% of the market share.
- Akash Air: 6.16 lakh passengers, with a 5.4% market share.
On-Time Performance
Major airports like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad recorded the highest on-time performance at 71.9%, ensuring smoother experiences for passengers.
India’s aviation industry is not just about numbers but also about evolving strategies and meeting passenger demands. The rising domestic air traffic, coupled with significant airline mergers, reflects a transformative phase for the sector, bringing air travel closer to the common man’s reach.
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