Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ) in Amritsar, Punjab, achieved a record-breaking milestone in 2024, handling 3.42 million passengers. This marks a significant increase in air traffic, highlighting the airport’s growing role in both domestic and international travel.

Passenger Traffic Breakdown

The airport’s domestic sector saw 2.31 million travelers, while international traffic exceeded one million passengers for the first time, reaching 1.11 million. These figures reflect a rising demand for air travel in the region and the airport’s ability to accommodate increasing passenger numbers.

Record Aircraft Movements

ATQ recorded 22,589 aircraft movements throughout 2024, setting a new benchmark for operational activity. Domestic flights accounted for 16,437 movements, while 6,152 flights catered to international routes. These numbers reinforce the airport’s expanding connectivity and efficiency.

Year-on-Year Growth

The airport’s overall passenger traffic grew by 16.32% compared to 2023, with domestic travel rising by 14.06% and international travel increasing by 21.31%. December 2024 emerged as the busiest month, with 340,408 passengers, including 229,738 domestic and 110,670 international travelers.

Expansion Plans for 2025

With rising demand, airlines are considering new routes to enhance connectivity. Indian carriers are exploring capacity increases, while international airlines such as VietJet and Thai Airways are evaluating Amritsar for potential operations.

Potential New Routes:

• Amritsar-Jaipur: A high-demand route catering to both business and leisure travelers. IndiGo could operate ATR-72 aircraft daily to meet travel needs.
• Amritsar-Nanded: A crucial religious tourism link, particularly for Sikh pilgrims. Air India could deploy A319 aircraft for four weekly flights.
• Amritsar-Surat: A promising sector driven by industrial and religious tourism demand. IndiGo’s A320neo could efficiently serve this route with three weekly flights.
• Amritsar-Abu Dhabi: Strengthening UAE connections, complementing the 26 weekly flights currently operating between Amritsar and Dubai/Sharjah. Daily services using A320neo or Boeing 737 by IndiGo or Air India Express could cater to this growing demand.

Outlook for Amritsar Airport

With consistent passenger growth and strong route potential, Amritsar Airport is set for continued expansion in 2025. Strategic airline partnerships, increased frequencies, and new route launches will further enhance the airport’s role as a key aviation hub in North India.

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