SRINAGAR: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) will celebrate “Yatri Suvidha Diwas” at Srinagar International Airport on June 15, showcasing recent infrastructure developments, passenger-centric initiatives and future expansion plans aimed at enhancing travel experience and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing media persons Director Airport, Javed Anjum said, the event is being organised to reaffirm the airport’s commitment towards providing seamless, safe and passenger-friendly services while highlighting major achievements in connectivity, tourism promotion and infrastructure development.
Srinagar Airport has witnessed substantial growth in air connectivity over the years, with passenger handling increasing from 2.04 million in 2014-15 to 4.47 million in 2024-25. However, passenger traffic declined to 3.38 million in 2025-26 following the Pahalgam incident, he said.
The airport currently offers several passenger-friendly facilities including Digi Yatra, self-baggage drop, free Wi-Fi, meet-and-greet services, EV charging stations, e-carts, Flybrary, laptop workstations, mobile charging points, smoking lounges, kids’ zones and a range of shopping and dining options featuring both global and regional brands, Anjum said.
Srinagar Airport continues to play a key role in promoting tourism by providing connectivity to major tourist destinations across Kashmir, thereby supporting local livelihoods, hospitality and handicraft sectors, he said.
In the cargo sector, the airport has recorded significant growth, with annual cargo handling increasing from 7,000 metric tonnes to 10,500 metric tonnes over the past five years. The airport has a total cargo handling capacity of 40,000 metric tonnes annually, he added.
The Government of India has allocated Rs 1,667 crore for the expansion of Srinagar Airport. Under the project, passenger handling capacity will increase from 2.5 million passengers per annum (MPPA) to 10 MPPA, while the terminal area will expand from 20,000 square metres to 71,000 square metres, Anjum said.
The project also includes construction of a multi-level parking facility with capacity for 1,000 vehicles. The new terminal, designed to international standards, will be capable of handling 15 aircraft simultaneously and is expected to be completed within four years.
Additionally, a new airport connectivity corridor linking the airport with the Ring Road is being planned in coordination with the UT Administration and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to ease passenger movement and improve accessibility.
As part of Yatri Suvidha Diwas celebrations, various activities including passenger welcome programmes, cultural performances, cleanliness and plantation drives, health and blood donation camps, school visits, painting competitions, aviation seminars, recognition of women employees and digital displays of airport developments will be organised.
The airport administration said the event reflects its “Passenger First” philosophy and commitment to continuously improving services through innovation, technology and enhanced passenger convenience. (JKNS)
