Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) today greeted its 100 millionth passenger at the Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB) reaching another historic milestone in less than eight years of operations. This achievement ushered in multiple celebrations at the airport. The 100 millionth passenger Mr. Vinay Kulkarni arriving from Mumbai on Jet Airways 9w394 and was greeted by the airport’s management.
Commenting on this feat, Mr. G V Sanjay Reddy, Managing Director, BIAL said, “This is a very special moment for all of us at BIAL. The achievement comes within eight years of operations and is a testimony of our ability to meet the rapid demand and growth of the domestic and international air traffic. This recognition would not have been possible without the collective showcase of passion and perseverance of the KIAB workforce to create an unparalleled experiences for our passengers.”
BIAL determined the 100 millionth passenger after it created an algorithm that was based on actual passenger numbers from the start of airport operations in May 2008 to March 2016. KIAB, is India’s third busiest airport with the highest passenger traffic in South India. Surpassing the 100 millionth passenger milestone is a validation of the airport’s reputation as being the region’s largest hub. This record further establishes the airport’s position as the emerging ‘Gateway to South India’. In March 2015 KIAB was classified as a mid-sized airport when it clocked 15 million passengers. The airport further experienced a positive growth in 2015 with 18.1 million passengers transiting through the airport at the end of the calendar year. This consistent growth of the airport is a demonstration of KIAB as an airport of choice. On an average approximately 52,000 passengers transit through KIAB every day.
KIAB started operation in May 2008. The airport is envisioned to meet the growing aviation needs of the city through the development of a passenger-friendly and well-operated airport. The master plan ensures that the size and capacity of the airport’s facilities are in line with passenger traffic forecast and projected cargo growth. The new T1 began operations in February 2014 and has the capacity to handle 20 million passengers annually. Currently, the existing facility is undergoing expansion to accommodate the growth till the first phase of T2 is completed. KIAB has a healthy mix of business and tourist traffic served by 44 airlines to 67 destinations in India and globally.
