At the prestigious Wings India Awards 2024, both the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru and the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi were jointly awarded the ‘Best Airport of the Year’. This accolade celebrates world-class operators and individuals who have significantly contributed to the aviation industry, especially during challenging times.
Ceremony and Recognition
The award ceremony, held in Hyderabad, saw a gathering of notable personalities from the aviation sector. The awards covered various categories, recognizing excellence in traffic handling, innovation, sustainability, and more. Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport was specifically recognized with the ’25 MPPA Traffic Award’ in the Airports category for handling more than 25 million passengers annually.
Features of Kempegowda International Airport
Kempegowda International Airport has made significant strides in enhancing passenger experience. Key improvements include an increased number of entry gates, check-in counters, and informative display boards. The airport’s international operations were moved from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 to accommodate the annual traffic of 25 million passengers. Additionally, to reduce waiting times, immigration and emigration counters have been expanded.
Environmental Commitment
The airport has been proactive in its environmental commitments, achieving Level 4+ Transition status under the globally recognized Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program. Efforts to minimize environmental impact include achieving net energy-neutral status, prohibiting single-use plastics, and regenerating more water than consumed. The airport holds the distinction of being the world’s largest terminal with a Platinum LEED rating and IGBC Green New Building Platinum certification.
Technological Advancements
Kempegowda International Airport incorporates advanced technology to improve passenger convenience, featuring Digi Yatra facial recognition, the BLR Pulse app, and self-baggage drop systems. It also employs an Automated Tray Retrieval System for streamlined baggage screening.
Operational Excellence
In October 2023, the airport was recognized as the world’s most punctual airport for three consecutive months, showcasing its commitment to operational excellence.