Visakhapatnam Airport has experienced a significant decline in air traffic, with the average number of daily flights plummeting to just 23-28 in the month of June. In a disheartening record, June 21, 2023, saw the lowest number of flights, with a meager total of 23. This decline in air traffic has raised concerns, particularly as passenger traffic fell by an estimated 25% during the same period. The monthly passenger count for June stood at a worrisome 2.1 lakh, causing alarm when compared to the figures recorded in January.
One of the primary reasons for this decline is the withdrawal of airlines from Visakhapatnam. Go Air, which had been operating three flight services, pulled out after temporarily halting its operations across the country in May due to bankruptcy. The airline’s decision has further contributed to the decreased air traffic at Visakhapatnam Airport. In addition, Akasa Air, which had introduced flights to Bengaluru and Mumbai just six months ago, has made the shocking announcement of withdrawing its services from Vizag as well.
The decline in air traffic has also impacted the ranking of Visakhapatnam Airport among the top airports in the country. Earlier in January this year, the airport had secured a place among the top 20 airports in India. However, due to the cancellation of services by various airlines and the subsequent low air traffic, the airport has slipped in rankings.
