India’s aviation sector is taking flight, experiencing a remarkable transformation driven by a surge in direct international flights. This shift is changing the way travelers choose to explore the world, opting for seamless journeys over lengthy stopovers. The rise of airlines like IndiGo and Air India, part of the Tata Group, offering more overseas flights, is a major driver of this change. The emergence of new players like Akasa Air and increased participation by foreign airlines in the Indian market have further shaken up the travel landscape.
This trend is clearly evident in data analyzed by UK-based aviation consultancy OAG. Comparing 2019, pre-pandemic, to 2023, the study reveals a significant shift in travel behavior. While India’s international air passenger traffic in 2023 remained slightly lower than 2019 at approximately 6.5 crore passengers (a decrease of 6 lakh), the number of passengers opting for direct flights has surged. In 2023, 3.7 crore passengers chose direct routes, a remarkable increase of 20 lakh compared to 2019. This growth comes at the expense of indirect routes, which witnessed a decrease of 25 lakh passengers, bringing the total to 2.7 crore in 2023. As a result, the proportion of passengers choosing non-stop flights has climbed from 54% in 2019 to 57% in 2023.
This shift towards direct connections is also evident in the growing number of transfer passengers using Indian airports. Notably, 10 lakh travelers used Indian airports for transfers, including routes like Kathmandu to New York via Delhi. The expansion of direct connectivity is further underlined by countries like Vietnam and Indonesia introducing new routes to India, minimizing the need for stopover flights unless specifically preferred.
OAG’s analysis also highlights a significant decline in traffic through traditional hub airports, particularly in the Middle East. This region experienced a reduction of 10 lakh passengers opting for indirect routes from 2019 to 2023. Other global hubs also saw a loss of 28 lakh indirect travelers during the same period, while Indian airports gained 10 lakh in transfer passengers. Over the past four years, Indian carriers have actively expanded their reach, launching 52 new international routes. This growth reflects the strategic approach of the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Modi, which has adopted a cautious policy regarding bilateral flying agreements with other nations. This approach aims to protect domestic carriers while nurturing India’s potential as a global aviation hub.
