With 17.24L passengers, Surat airport records all-time high traffic
Surat: Just a year after being declared an
international airport
,
Surat Airport
has recorded its highest-ever
passenger traffic
in 2024–25, surpassing its previous peak from 2019–20. The airport handled a total of 17,24,821 passengers, compared to 15.15 lakh in 2019–20.
What makes the milestone more impressive is that the current figures were achieved with just 30 to 36 daily flights, far fewer than the 52 daily flights operating during the previous record year. This has prompted
aviation experts
and local activists to demand more flights and upgraded facilities to match the city's growing potential.
Linesh Shah, an aviation expert from Surat, told TOI: "This is a landmark achievement. However, considering Surat's size and potential, this number could be much higher. As the second-largest city in Gujarat and the eighth-largest in India, with a population of over 85 lakh, Surat deserves better connectivity. Currently, the city is served by just 36 to 40 flights daily, including limited international services."
Shah added that by addressing critical infrastructure gaps—such as runway extension, 24x7 ATC services, advanced navigation systems, full-fledged cargo facilities, and bilateral point-of-call status—Surat could double its current passenger traffic within two years.
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Trade gold CFDs with a trusted broker | Open an account today
IC Markets
Learn More
Undo
Sanjay Jain, a member of We Work for Working Airport at Surat (WWWA), said: "Currently, there are about 35 arrivals and departures each day. Back in 2019–20, that number was 52. Despite this, flights today operate at 85–90% occupancy, helping Surat break its previous record. The govt and airport authorities must work toward restoring previous routes and increasing the
flight count
beyond 50."
Aviation enthusiast Rajesh Modi said, "This is a proud moment for every Surti. Surat is clearly growing on the aviation map. However, some issues still need attention. The airport lacks proper food, beverage, and retail options even after 1.5 years of international status. Also the absence of 24x7 operations discourages airlines from launching late-night flights, which could otherwise take advantage of lower parking and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) charges compared to metro airports."
With numbers soaring and demand clearly outpacing supply, experts say it's time Surat Airport received the attention and infrastructure it deserves.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
31 minutes ago
- Time of India
Rs 125 crore factory complex near medical device park to boost startups
Noida: Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has launched a tender for a flatted factory complex spanning 38,665 sqm near its 350-acre medical device park in Sector 28. The Rs 125-crore complex is to be completed within 24 months and is expected to boost the entry of MSMEs and startups in the area. The complex, proposed to be a five-storey industrial space offering plug-and-play units with built-in utilities and shared amenities, like cafeterias, exhibition halls, parking space, retail shops and lifts, will offer 252 office units on a rental basis to startups to lower entry barriers. YEIDA CEO Arun Veer Singh said the complex is among the 11 factory complexes proposed off the Yamuna Expressway. "Flatted factory complexes support the state's vision of becoming a leading industrial hub with a focus on MSMEs and startups. Around 3,000 affordable and ready-to-use industrial spaces are currently in the pipeline, and at least 75% of these units will be reserved for MSMEs and 25% for startups," he said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo TOI earlier reported that a factory complex is to come up in Sector 10 to support the 206-acre electronics manufacturing cluster (EMC) with 228 units, while two large plots—20,234 sqm and 44,515 sqm—have also been earmarked for flatted factories in the YEIDA areas. Each of these complexes is proposed to be tailored for proposed industrial parks like medical device, semiconductor, IT, apparel and toy. Noida Entrepreneurs Association (NEA) vice president Sudhir Shrivastava told TOI that factory complexes are needed across Noida, Greater Noida and Yamuna authority areas as the govt positions the region as India's next manufacturing hotspot. "Setting up a factory involves significant financial investment, besides approvals from multiple departments such as the Authority, power, fire and others, which often deters entrepreneurs. A factory complex addresses these challenges, as the Authority takes care of the development and necessary clearances. This allows micro and small enterprises, typically employing between 5 to 20 people, to rent space and start operations with ease," he said. NEA has 3,600 registered members in the city, dealing in different businesses. While Noida does not have any designated factory complexes, the concept has found standing in the city, too. With high land and rental costs, several small-scale industries such as furniture, handicrafts, and packaging currently operate out of smaller office buildings in sectors 6, 9, and 10, while some factories operate out of UPSIDA industrial area in Surajpur.
Time of India
42 minutes ago
- Time of India
Lalbagh in Bengaluru goes greener with E-cycles and rare tree plantation
Good news for those planning to explore the Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bengaluru. In celebration of World Environment Day, Lalbagh is getting greener and sustainable thanks to the electric bikes and smart tech upgrades. Here's everything travellers need to know about the eco-friendly transformation underway. Eco-friendly rides Lalbagh Garden has introduced an eco-transport initiative wherein 13 electric bicycles and tricycles for public use. These are battery-powered cycles which can travel up to 50 kilometres on a single charge. This is the best way to keep the garden clean, quiet, and sustainable. As of now, these bicycles are introduced on a one-month trial phase. The service aims to gauge visitor interest. Officials plan to finalize pricing and access options based on public response. There are also plans to install designated pick-up and drop-off points, ensuring convenience for all riders. Whether you're a solo explorer or visiting with family, these electric cycles offer a relaxing and environmentally responsible way to tour the garden. The garden is known for its rich plant diversity, but it is now taking that legacy even further. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo The Department of Horticulture has announced the planting of 341 trees from 110 different genera, all native or rare species, along the 5-kilometre boundary wall of the garden. This tree-planting initiative isn't just about beautification—it's about restoring and preserving native biodiversity. These new trees will provide habitat for local wildlife, improve air quality, and add to the serene charm of the park. For travellers interested in botany, conservation, or simply enjoying natural beauty, this is a wonderful development. QR Codes for tree education In another visitor-friendly innovation, Lalbagh is introducing QR codes on select trees to provide informative content about each species. Initially, 50 tree species will be tagged, with more to follow in the coming months. By scanning the QR code with a smartphone, visitors will be able to access details such as the plant's origin, flowering and fruiting periods, medicinal or ecological uses, and other interesting facts. This fusion of technology and nature transforms your stroll into an educational experience, perfect for families, students, or anyone curious about the world of plants. What it means for travellers These initiatives aren't just green in intention—they make visiting Lalbagh more engaging, comfortable, and meaningful. With options for sustainable transport, rare flora to discover, and interactive learning features, Lalbagh is setting a benchmark for urban green spaces in India. As these projects take shape, travellers can look forward to a richer experience that aligns with responsible tourism and environmental awareness. So the next time you're in Bengaluru, make sure to visit Lalbagh—not just to see flowers, but to witness a living example of a greener future in progress. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos on 'two biographical heroes' who influenced his business philosophy
Amazon founder and former CEO Jeff Bezos said that Thomas Edison and Walt Disney are his 'two biographical heroes' who influenced his entrepreneurial philosophy. In a 2001 interview, Bezos highlighted how Edison's inventive spirit and Disney's visionary leadership shaped the way he approached building Amazon into one of America's most influential tech companies. Bezos praised Edison as both a symbol and embodiment of innovation, admiring his role as a pioneer in invention. Stating that the American inventor is his biographical hero, Bezos said 'Edison is not only the symbol of that but the actual fact of that'. In contrast, he credited Disney for his ability to create a compelling vision and inspire large teams to bring that vision to life — a skill Bezos found crucial for scaling ambitious projects. He praised Disney's 'incredible capability to create a vision that he could get a large number of people to share'. He further noted that while Edison largely worked alone on his inventions, Disney's success came from organizing people around a shared dream — something Bezos sought to emulate in Amazon's growth and culture. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Andy Jassy reveals Jeff Bezos' four traits that helped make Amazon a $1 trillion company In an interview, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy highlighted four key traits that set Bezos apart, calling him 'arguably the most unusual business leader of our era.' He pointed to four traits that set Bezos apart and continue to shape Amazon's culture: few bigger thinkers, uncompromising standards, long-term focus with fast execution, and open and curious mindset. 'There aren't too many other bigger thinkers than Jeff Bezos,' Jassy then said, adding: 'He always had a way of getting teams to think bigger.' Tecno Pova Curve: Unboxing and First Look AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
