Srinagar, Jun 13: The Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport here has set a massive record in a decade as the footfall of passenger traffic has more than doubled from 2.04 million in 2014-15 to 4.47 million in 2024-25, while air cargo has risen from 7,000 MT to 10,500 MT over the last five years, according to figures shared by the Srinagar Airport Authority.
The data reflects remarkable expansion in air connectivity, enhanced flight operations, improved access to domestic destinations, and growing demand for air travel in Jammu and Kashmir, with officials stating that the rise in footfall has played a key role in strengthening regional connectivity and supporting tourism, trade, and economic development across the Union Territory.
However, the details further reveal that the airport witnessed a decline in passenger traffic to 3.38 million in 2025-26, largely in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed at Baisaran Valley. The figures indicate how tourist arrivals and overall travel sentiment to the Valley were impacted post-attack.
The growth of air cargo operations has facilitated the faster movement of perishable goods, handicrafts, industrial products, and other commodities. Although the airport's annual cargo handling capacity is 40,000 MT, the cargo handled increased from 7,000 MT to 10,500 MT over the last five years.
The Union Government has allocated ₹1,667 crore for the expansion of Srinagar Airport, under which the terminal capacity will increase from 2.5 MPPA to 10 MPPA, with the area increasing from 20,000 sqm to 71,000 sqm, along with a multi-level car parking facility with capacity for 1,000 vehicles. The new terminal will be at par with international standards, with the capacity to handle 15 aircraft at a time, and the project will be completed within four years. Additionally, a new airport link from the ring road is being planned in association with the UT Administration and NHAI.
The Airports Authority of India will celebrate "Yatri Suvidha Diwas" on Monday at Srinagar International Airport, with activities including passenger welcome, distribution of information leaflets, singing of Vande Mataram, cultural activities and folk dance, cleanliness drive, plantation drive, health check-up camp, blood donation camp, airport visit for school children, painting competition, and a seminar on aviation including the role of women.
Officials said Yatri Suvidha Diwas is not merely a celebration but a reaffirmation of the airport's commitment to the philosophy of "Passenger First," with passenger-centric facilities including Digi Yatra, self-baggage drop, free Wi-Fi, EV charging stations, free e-carts, Flybrary, laptop workstations, smoking lounges, kids zone, and shopping and dining options. The airport remains committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety, comfort, and hospitality.
