Guwahati Airport's 2025 Surge: Did 7 Million Passengers Redefine Northeast India?

Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport (LGBIA) in Guwahati saw a historic surge in traffic during 2025. The airport, operated by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), successfully managed 7.01 million passengers. This record volume highlights the airport's growing importance. It is now a critical gateway to India's entire Northeast region. The strong performance reflects a significant recovery and expansion in air travel demand.

Of the total traffic, 6.9 million were domestic passengers. International travelers accounted for 90,897 movements. This figure includes 45,423 arrivals and 45,474 departures. The growth signals increasing regional connectivity and demand for overseas travel.

Strategic Growth and New Connectivity

LGBIA significantly expanded its global reach in 2025. The airport introduced new direct international flights. These routes connect Guwahati to Paro, Bangkok, and Singapore. This network expansion is a key driver of the international passenger increase. The new links improve access to Southeast Asia and neighboring countries.

Aircraft Traffic Movements (ATMs) also rose substantially. The airport recorded 47,550 domestic ATMs for the year. International ATMs reached 1,000 movements. This growth demonstrates increased airline confidence in the market. It also confirms the airport’s enhanced operational capacity.

Operational Milestones and Infrastructure

The airport achieved a new single-day passenger record in 2025. On October 5, LGBIA managed 22,089 passengers, including transit travelers. This milestone underscores the effectiveness of infrastructure upgrades. The new terminal, inaugurated in December 2025, is a major factor. This facility is designed to handle 13.1 million passengers annually by 2032. Such expansion is vital for managing peak demand smoothly.

Major domestic carriers, such as IndiGo, are key players at the airport. Their expanded schedules support the high domestic traffic volume. The overall operational efficiency aligns with global standards set by bodies like ICAO.

Cargo Operations Emerge as a Regional Hub

Beyond passenger traffic, LGBIA demonstrated robust growth in cargo operations. The airport handled a total of 32,990 metric tons (MT) of cargo for the year. This significant increase positions LGBIA as an emerging logistics hub. December 2025 marked a record month for the GIAL Cargo Terminal. It recorded a total of 1,362 MT of cargo volume. This included 374 MT of perishable cargo. The terminal also set a single-day record of 60 MT on December 22, 2025.

• Perishable Cargo Focus: The emphasis on perishable goods strengthens regional trade. It supports the export of agricultural products from Northeast India.
• Economic Catalyst: The cargo growth is a direct economic catalyst. It supports employment and trade across the region.

Impact on Northeast India Aviation

LGBIA's record performance in 2025 is a major milestone for the region. It signals strong economic activity and tourism potential. The airport’s management, under Adani Airport Holdings, is focusing on seamless service. Continued infrastructure development is crucial for sustained growth. The expansion supports the government's Act East policy. It positions Guwahati as a primary air link to Southeast Asia. This makes the airport a critical asset for future commercial aviation news and regional development. The airport remains dedicated to delivering exceptional travel experiences. It is cementing its position as a premier gateway to Northeast India. For more updates on this story and other commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.