9 July, 2025-Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi has been ranked the ninth busiest airport in the world for 2024, according to the latest data released by the Airports Council International (ACI). The airport recorded approximately 74.3 million passenger movements last year, placing it among the top 10 globally for the first time.
As per the ACI World Airport Traffic Rankings 2024, Delhi is the only airport from South Asia to feature in the top 10 list, joining the ranks of leading global hubs such as Atlanta, Dubai, London Heathrow, and Tokyo Haneda. The rankings are based on total passenger traffic, combining both domestic and international travellers.
Delhi Airport, operated by the GMR-led Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has shown consistent growth in recent years. From being ranked 17th in 2019 and 13th in 2023, it has now entered the global top 10. DIAL has attributed this milestone to robust infrastructure expansion, operational efficiency, and rising travel demand.
According to DIAL, key developments such as the expansion of Terminal 1, addition of new runways, and technological upgrades have significantly improved passenger handling capacity and service quality. The airport serves as a major hub for leading Indian carriers including IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara, boosting its domestic and international connectivity.
ACI World Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira commended the airport’s progress and noted that Delhi’s inclusion in the top 10 reflects the rapid growth and resilience of the Asia-Pacific aviation market. He stated that Delhi Airport’s performance demonstrates India’s strengthening position in global air travel.
The strong rebound of India’s aviation sector post-pandemic has played a critical role in this achievement. With domestic travel in India surpassing pre-COVID levels and international travel on a steady rise, Delhi Airport has emerged as a key beneficiary of the industry’s recovery.
Looking ahead, Delhi Airport is set to further expand its capacity under its Master Plan 2040, which aims to increase its annual passenger handling ability to over 100 million. Continued investments in infrastructure and technology are expected to support this growth trajectory.
The ACI report is seen as a major recognition of India’s aviation sector and positions IGI Airport as a model for emerging markets aiming to improve global connectivity and operational excellence.
