Prayagraj airport is witnessing an unprecedented surge in air traffic, breaking records as it experiences a remarkable uptick in flights and passengers. On February 21, the airport handled a record 24,512 passengers, with 236 flights departing and arriving on the same day, setting a new benchmark for the facility.
This surge is largely attributed to the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, which has drawn lakhs of devotees to Prayagraj for a holy dip before the event’s conclusion on February 26. Typically, Prayagraj’s airport sees relatively modest passenger traffic, but the massive influx of visitors for the festival has led to a significant rise in both domestic and international flights.
For the first time in 93 years, the airport has also seen its first international flight, marking a significant milestone in the city’s aviation history. This development comes as the airport adapts to accommodate the growing demand, with authorities working to manage the increased traffic efficiently.
The Kumbh Mela, which occurs every 12 years, has traditionally driven a surge in visitors, but this year’s increase in air traffic highlights the city’s evolving role as a regional hub. The addition of international connectivity, alongside the substantial rise in domestic flight operations, is expected to leave a lasting impact on Prayagraj’s infrastructure and its future as a key destination in India’s aviation network.
The record-breaking traffic, along with the new international flight, reflects the changing dynamics at Prayagraj airport. As the Maha Kumbh Mela wraps up, the facility is poised to maintain the momentum, with enhanced capacity and services setting the stage for sustained growth in the years to come. The airport’s transformation highlights the increasing importance of air connectivity in facilitating both religious tourism and regional development.
