These disruptions impacted 63,723 passengers, prompting airlines to spend 70.32 lakh rupees on compensation and facilities.

India’s domestic aviation sector experienced a robust recovery in May 2026, with 1.53 crore passengers taking to the skies. This figure represents an 11 percent increase over April’s 1.38 crore travelers. Annual data further reinforces this upward trajectory, recording a 9.49 percent growth in air traffic compared to the previous year. The aviation sector recorded this 11 percent surge in May, driven by increased passenger volume alongside significant shifts in airline market share and operational performance. 

Cumulative performance remains positive as well. Between January and May 2026, domestic airlines serviced 729.40 lakh passengers, surpassing the 715.70 lakh travelers recorded during the same period last year. This reflects a steady annual growth rate of 1.91 percent across the domestic network, indicating consistent demand despite broader seasonal shifts.

Operational efficiency remained a key performance indicator. IndiGo topped the list for on-time performance at ten major airports with an 82.8 percent success rate, followed by Akasa Air at 78.3 percent and the Air India group at 74.5 percent. Alliance Air maintained 70.5 percent punctuality, while SpiceJet trailed significantly, managing only 26.5 percent on-time arrivals.

Service challenges also emerged, with flight cancellations recorded at 0.55 percent. These disruptions impacted 63,723 passengers, prompting airlines to spend 70.32 lakh rupees on compensation and facilities. Furthermore, flight delays affected 1.77 lakh travelers, while 900 passengers were denied boarding throughout the month.

Market dominance remains concentrated. IndiGo held a 64.9 percent market share, while the Air India group captured 25.6 percent. Akasa Air remained stable at 5.8 percent, whereas SpiceJet’s share dipped to 2.5 percent.