During the Diwali festivities in October 2024, Mumbai‘s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) experienced a surge in passenger traffic, handling over 4.42 million travellers. This bustling airport, one of India’s busiest and most efficient travel hubs, saw a notable rise in both domestic and international travel as people flocked to celebrate the festival of lights with their families and loved ones.
Domestic and International traffic
Mumbai Airport reported handling a total of 3.16 million domestic and 1.25 million international passengers during the Diwali period. The airport’s efficient infrastructure and expansion of travel options played a significant role in managing this increase in air traffic. In October alone, the airport managed 19,848 domestic and 7,222 international Air Traffic Movements (ATMs), showcasing its capacity to accommodate high volumes of air traffic.
The peak day for travel was October 26, when 939 flights were recorded, marking it as the busiest day of the month, with the highest number of ATMs. This surge in air traffic reflects the growing preference for air travel during the festive season, driven by the desire to visit family, attend celebrations, or simply escape to popular holiday destinations.
Popular destinations
Among domestic destinations, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Goa emerged as the most popular choices for Mumbai-bound travellers. Delhi, as the top destination, saw 0.58 million passengers flying to and from the capital city during the festive period. Goa, with its serene beaches and vibrant Diwali celebrations, also attracted a significant number of travellers, along with Bengaluru, known for its tech hubs and cosmopolitan lifestyle. These cities saw increased air traffic, further highlighting the role of Mumbai as a major connecting point for domestic travel.
International destinations
International travel from Mumbai Airport also saw a substantial rise, with the Middle East, Europe, and Asia being the top regions driving the demand. The Middle East accounted for the largest share of international traffic, making up 51% of all international flights, followed by Asia with 23% and Europe with 17%. Popular international destinations included Dubai, London, and Abu Dhabi, which continued to dominate passenger flow during Diwali. Additionally, the introduction of new routes, such as Nok Air’s flights to Don Mueang, Thailand, and Virgin Atlantic’s services to London, boosted passenger traffic to Asia and Europe.
Efficient management
CSMIA’s ability to efficiently handle the surge in passenger volumes during the Diwali season underscores its growing importance as a global aviation hub. With its world-class infrastructure and improved connectivity, Mumbai Airport is set to maintain its position as a vital international gateway, offering seamless travel experiences to millions of passengers in the final quarter of 2024.
As the airport continues to thrive, it remains at the forefront of connecting India to the world, showcasing its ability to adapt to increasing demand while ensuring a smooth travel experience for passengers across the globe.