In first quarter of 2023, 88% increase over corresponding 2022 figures

Passengers carried by scheduled Indian and Foreign carriers for scheduled international operations in the first quarter of 2023 show an increase of about 88% over the passenger figures of first quarter of 2022 as per provisional figures available.

The number of international passengers had been affected adversely due to COVID-19. However, the situation has improved as witnessed by rebound in air travelers after the resumption of scheduled international commercial passenger operations w.e.f 27.03.2022.

The market share of scheduled domestic airlines for international passengers has not shown an increase as per provisional figures available.

To attract domestic and international passengers and to give boost to aviation industry in the country, the government has inter-alia, taken the following steps:

(i) For enhancing regional connectivity in the domestic sector, the Ministry operates the UDAN scheme.

(ii) In the international sector, 18 tourist destinations of India have been made available for SAARC (except Afghanistan and Pakistan) and ASEAN countries to/from which designated carriers of India as well as designated carriers of SAARC and ASEAN countries can mount unlimited operations. Additionally, in accordance with the National Civil Aviation Policy, 2016, the government has, on reciprocal basis, offered open sky arrangements to SAARC countries and countries located beyond 5000 kms from Delhi. As on date, India has open sky arrangements with 23 countries which has facilitated unlimited operations between India and these countries.

This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Civil Aviation Gen. (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd) in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

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