India’s domestic air passenger traffic experienced a contraction of approximately 6.50% month-on-month to 1.18 crore in September, a decrease from 1.21 crore in August, according to recent data released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This decline represents the seventh successive month of year-on-year contraction in 2026. The September figures have also resulted in year-to-date passenger numbers moving into negative territory for the initial time, with traffic for January to September decreasing 0.82 per cent year-on-year to 1,223.53 lakh passengers in comparison with 1,233.70 lakh during the corresponding period of 2025.