According to the latest data released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s scheduled domestic flight operators have carried around 1.43 crore passengers in December 2025. This figure shows a decrease of 4.14 per cent compared to the same period last year. While this may seem like a cause for concern, it is important to note that the aviation industry has been steadily recovering from the effects of the pandemic and these numbers are a positive sign of progress.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the aviation industry was hit hard as travel restrictions and safety concerns forced people to stay grounded. However, as the situation improved and restrictions were eased, we have seen a gradual increase in air travel. In fact, the number of domestic passengers in December 2025 is almost double the figure recorded in December 2024. This is a clear indication of the resilience of the aviation sector and its ability to bounce back from challenging times.
The decrease in passenger numbers in December 2025 can be attributed to a few factors. First and foremost, the festive season of December 2024 saw a significant increase in air travel, which may have skewed the comparison. Additionally, the recent spike in COVID-19 cases and the emergence of new variants may have led to a decrease in travel demand. However, despite these challenges, the domestic flight operators have managed to ferry 1.43 crore passengers, which is no small feat.
It is also worth noting that the decrease in passenger numbers has not affected the overall growth of the aviation industry. In fact, according to the DGCA data, there has been a steady growth in the number of passengers over the last few months. This shows that the industry is on a path of recovery and is slowly but surely regaining its pre-pandemic momentum.
The DGCA data also reveals some interesting trends in passenger traffic. For instance, the low-cost carrier (LCC) segment continues to dominate the market with a 69.3 per cent share in December 2025. This is a testament to the affordability and convenience offered by LCCs, which has made air travel accessible to a larger section of the society. It is also heartening to see that regional connectivity has received a boost, with regional carriers recording a significant increase in passenger traffic.
Furthermore, the data also highlights the importance of domestic tourism in the revival of the aviation sector. With international travel still restricted, people are turning to domestic destinations for their travel needs. This has not only benefited the airlines but also the tourism industry, which has been struggling due to the pandemic. It is encouraging to see that people are embracing domestic travel and exploring the diverse and beautiful destinations within our own country.
The decrease in passenger numbers in December 2025 also highlights the need for continued safety measures and protocols in the aviation sector. Domestic flight operators have been taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their passengers and staff. From mandatory mask-wearing to frequent sanitization of aircraft, these measures have instilled confidence in travellers and have played a crucial role in reviving the industry.
In conclusion, while the decrease in passenger numbers in December 2025 may seem concerning at first glance, it is important to view it in the larger context. The aviation industry has shown remarkable resilience and has managed to carry 1.43 crore passengers in the midst of a global pandemic. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all those involved in the aviation sector. As we continue to navigate through these challenging times, let us look towards a brighter future where air travel will once again thrive, connecting people and places with ease and efficiency.
