Having handled 34.2 lakh passengers in 2025-26, the Coimbatore International Airport is poised to handle around 1.16 crore passengers by 2036-37, with a ₹2,200-crore expansion project expected to pave the way for runway extension, new terminal and operation of wide-body aircraft, Airport Director Mohammad Arif said on Saturday (June 13) ahead of Yatri Suvidha Diwas 2026 celebrations on June 15.Yatri Suvidha Diwas aims at spreading awareness among passengers on the Airports Authority of India’s initiatives in aviation infrastructure development and passenger services.Mr. Arif said passenger traffic at the airport increased from about 13.2 lakh in 2014-15 to 34.2 lakh in 2025-26, registering a growth of around 159% over the past 12 years.Air cargo handled at the airport increased from around 10,000 metric tonnes in 2014-15 to about 15,000 metric tonnes in 2025-26. Domestic cargo traffic grew by around 60% during the period, while international cargo traffic increased by about 10%.Over the past 12 years, the airport has witnessed several infrastructure improvements. Passenger boarding bridges were commissioned, the apron was expanded and additional parking bays. Runway recarpeting was completed in 2023.As part of sustainability initiatives, the airport converted all conventional lighting to LED fixtures and commissioned a 67.52-kWp solar power plant.On the proposed ₹2,200-crore airport expansion project, Mr. Arif said the State government had handed over almost the entire extent of land required. AAI was awaiting final approvals before inviting tenders. “Almost everything has been completed from the State government side, and there are no major obstacles to the tendering process,” he said.He said the project would facilitate runway extension, enabling operations of wide-body aircraft and boosting air connectivity and cargo movement.As part of Yatri Suvidha Diwas celebrations, planned activities include welcoming passengers, a drawing competition for children, an aviation career counselling session for college students, eye and general health check-up camps, a blood donation camp, cleanliness and plantation drives and programmes to honour housekeeping staff and women employees of stakeholder organisations. A cultural programme has also been planned. Published - June 13, 2026 06:35 pm IST