15 hours Ago By Vishal Patadiya
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. 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.
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