Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport Plans Global Expansion After Strong 2025 Performance

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport Plans Global Expansion After Strong 2025 Performance

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 16, 2026

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru has announced plans to expand its international connectivity, add capacity, and deepen airline partnerships in 2026 after closing calendar year 2025 with higher passenger volumes and steady cargo growth. The airport operator said the focus will remain on scaling both passenger and cargo operations while supporting wider network expansion.

Total passenger traffic at the airport reached 43.82 million in 2025, up from 40.73 million in 2024. During the year, the airport recorded its highest-ever single-day passenger movement of 1,37,317 travellers on 23 November 2025. Aircraft movements also remained strong, with daily movements peaking at 837 in October and averaging 765 across the year.

A key development in 2025 was the airport’s shift from third to second position nationally in terms of domestic flights operated during October. International traffic showed the strongest growth, with average daily international departures increasing from 38 in 2024 to 51 in 2025. This led to a 28.7% year-on-year rise in international passenger traffic.

Over the year, the airport added five new domestic and five new international routes. Domestically, new connections included Hindon, Bidar, Jaisalmer, Silchar and Navi Mumbai. On the international front, new routes were launched to Dammam, Ho Chi Minh City, Krabi, Hanoi and Riyadh.

Commenting on the performance, Girish Nair, Chief Operating Officer, BIAL, said, “2025 was a demanding year for India’s aviation sector and BLR Airport was no exception. What distinguished the year for us was a disciplined and resilient response, maintaining operational stability, supporting our airline partners, and strengthening network connectivity. As the year progressed, we responsibly and strategically scaled both passenger and cargo operations, with a clear focus on future readiness. This growth reflects not only rising demand but also the trust and confidence airlines and travellers place in BLR Airport as the ‘New Gateway to India’, a critical hub enabling Bengaluru’s emergence as a leading global city.”

As of 31 December 2025, the airport was connected to 113 destinations, including 79 domestic and 34 international locations. Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Pune were the top domestic destinations, while Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, London Heathrow and Kuala Lumpur emerged as the leading international routes.

Airlines continued to expand their presence at the airport through 2025. Air India Express increased operations, IndiGo added new international services, and Akasa Air launched flights to Phuket and Jeddah. VietJet and Vietnam Airlines entered the Bengaluru network, while Lufthansa, KLM, Japan Airlines and Virgin Atlantic increased frequencies on long-haul routes.

Cargo operations also posted growth during the year, with volumes reaching 520,985 metric tonnes, a 5% increase compared with 2024. The airport recorded its highest single-day cargo throughput of 2,207 metric tonnes on 7 August 2025. It is now connected to 37 cargo destinations served by 15 cargo airlines, with shipments led by agri-perishables, pharmaceuticals, auto parts, electronics and e-commerce goods.

To support this growth, additional cargo infrastructure became operational during the year, including a new domestic cargo terminal developed by Menzies Aviation and the AISATS BLR Logistics Park, which added fresh warehousing capacity.

Looking ahead to 2026, the airport operator said international traffic and cargo demand are expected to remain key growth drivers as new routes and increased frequencies are added. The planned expansion is aimed at reinforcing Kempegowda International Airport’s position as one of India’s leading aviation hubs.


ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 6, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited has announced the opening of Storii Jawai in Rajasthan, adding the 11th property to its Storii portfolio. The boutique retreat is designed as a nature-led destination, reflecting the growing interest in experiential and eco-sensitive travel across India.

Located in the Jawai region, the property is surrounded by landscapes known for leopard sightings, granite hills, and the Jawai River ecosystem. The area is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, making it a unique destination for travellers looking to connect with nature and wildlife.

Developed in partnership with 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., the property highlights ITC Hotels’ focus on expanding through collaborations while building immersive travel experiences.

The retreat features 15 keys, designed to blend safari-style elements with modern comfort. Guests are welcomed through a tented reception that leads to a colonial-style bungalow serving as the central lounge and bar. The accommodation is spread across villas set within a preserved natural setting, with features such as private courtyards, plunge pools, and tented structures. The design ensures minimal impact on the environment while offering a stay that reflects the region’s character.

Facilities include an infinity pool set on a hillock overlooking a natural lake, along with spaces for wellness and outdoor activities. The experience is further enhanced with wildlife exploration programmes and curated dining, catering to travellers seeking more meaningful and destination-led stays.

Commenting on the launch, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, “We are delighted to open the 11th Storii in Jawai. An intimate 15 key boutique retreat that distils the essence of quiet comforts in the wild, Jawai stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of modern innovation and timeless tradition. Storii Jawai is our tribute to the beauty and resilience of this region”.

Bharat Kumar Singh, Promoter, 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., added, “As people from the soil, Storii Jawai reflects our belief in Rajasthani culture and traditions. It has been a humbling experience for us to be able to build a space for fellow travellers to come and immerse in our hinterland. We are grateful to associate with ITC Hotels Limited who reflect our values and vision, and have been with us shoulder to shoulder to make it happen”.

The launch also reflects rising demand for destinations that combine ecological sensitivity with cultural depth, especially in regions like Jawai that are closely connected to local communities such as the Rabari community.


Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited has unveiled Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, marking the debut of the SeleQtions brand in Kanpur, one of Uttar Pradesh’s key commercial and industrial centres.

Highlighting the significance of the launch, Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President – New Businesses & Hotel Openings, IHCL, said, “Kanpur, a vital commercial and industrial centre is witnessing rapid growth with its evolving infrastructure and increasing connectivity. The opening of Eternity, Kanpur, IHCL SeleQtions addresses the growing demand from corporate, MICE and social segments.”

Strategically located on NH-91, away from the city’s bustle, the hotel features 104 neo-classical rooms offering views of the cityscape. The property is designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers with a mix of comfort, connectivity, and modern amenities.

Dining options include Célesté, an all-day dining restaurant; Thea, a bar serving European-inspired cocktails along with an exclusive cigar lounge; and Aurumn the Lounge. Guests can also enjoy wellness facilities such as a spa, swimming pool, and a fully equipped gym.

For events and gatherings, the hotel offers expansive banquet and meeting spaces. The largest banquet hall spans over 11,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for conferences, conventions, and social celebrations.

Mr. Jalpreet Sodhi, General Manager, Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, said, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Eternity - IHCL SeleQtions and offering a memorable experience in the culturally rich city of Kanpur.”

Located along the banks of the Ganga, Kanpur is known for its strong industrial legacy in leather, textiles, and manufacturing, making it an important commercial hub in North India. With this launch, IHCL continues to strengthen its presence in growing urban markets across the country.


Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

After weeks of deadlines, financial closures, and the usual rush that comes with March, the Good Friday long weekend arrives at just the right time. Sitting right at the end of the financial year, it offers a chance to step away from routine, take a breather, and begin April with a clearer mind. Whether it’s the calm of a coffee estate, the stillness of backwaters, or the fresh air of the mountains, a short getaway can make all the difference.

At Evolve Back Coorg, the surroundings naturally slow things down. Set amid coffee plantations and rainforest landscapes, the experience here is all about quiet moments. Mornings begin with misty walks, followed by relaxed breakfasts, spa time, and peaceful hours by a private pool, making it easy to switch off from work mode.

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For those who prefer a deeper disconnect, The Tamara Coorg offers forest-lined cottages and sweeping hill views. The calm setting encourages slower mornings and evenings without screens, allowing travellers to gently ease out of the stress of work and return feeling lighter.

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If a slower pace by the water sounds more appealing, Coconut Lagoon provides a refreshing change. Surrounded by the backwaters of Kumarakom, the experience is simple and unhurried, with boat rides, sunset views, and traditional wellness therapies creating a sense of balance without the need for a packed schedule.

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For a more complete wellness reset, Ananda in the Himalayas stands out as a destination focused on mental and physical well-being. With meditation, personalised wellness programmes, and the calming influence of the mountains, even a short stay here helps restore focus and energy.

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Similarly, Six Senses Vana offers a more guided approach to relaxation. Instead of a typical holiday, it focuses on mindful routines and holistic wellness, helping guests return feeling calmer, more balanced, and ready for the weeks ahead.

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Not every break needs to be long to make an impact. Sometimes, a few days in the right environment is enough to reset both mind and body. With peaceful surroundings and thoughtful hospitality, these retreats offer a simple yet meaningful way to step into April with renewed energy.

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