From losses to record growth; this airport in Kerala now eyeing Rs 250 crore in revenue

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kannur International Airport, once associated with mounting losses and reduced airline operations, is now showing strong signs of revival. The airport has witnessed impressive growth in both passenger traffic and revenue in the current financial year, signalling a promising turnaround.

Compared to the previous fiscal year, there has been a 93% increase in passenger traffic and a 27% rise in revenue. In the financial year 2024–25, Kannur Airport handled 13.4 lakh passengers and operated a total of 11,430 flights. The airport earned a revenue of Rs 195 crore, up from Rs 101 crore in 2023–24.

The figures for April and May of the new financial year also offer hope. Compared to April last year, passenger numbers grew by 39% this April. In just the first two months, KIACL (Kannur International Airport Ltd) collected Rs 41 crore in revenue. For the fiscal year 2025–26, the airport is targeting 2 million passengers and Rs 250 crore in revenue.

New services have been launched in both domestic and international sectors. With special focus on the expatriate community from North Malabar, Gulf sector connectivity has been enhanced. Indigo Airlines has started new services to New Delhi, Fujairah, Muscat, and Dammam. Discussions with other airlines to begin additional routes are ongoing. KIACL officials expect further increases in both passenger traffic and revenue as new services are added.