Winter Schedule 2025 Announced for Domestic Airlines: 5.95% Growth in Weekly Departures, New Airports Added

Winter Schedule 2025 Announced for Domestic Airlines: 5.95% Growth in Weekly Departures, New Airports Added

The Winter Schedule 2025 (WS25) for scheduled domestic airlines has been officially finalized and will be effective from 26th October 2025 to 28th March 2026, according to the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The new schedule reflects the government’s continued focus on enhancing regional air connectivity and strengthening India’s aviation network under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme.

The Winter Schedule 2025 proposes a 5.95% growth in total weekly departures compared to the Winter Schedule 2024 (WS24), showcasing steady expansion in the domestic aviation sector despite global economic challenges. The schedule was finalized after the slot conference meeting held in September 2025, with final clearances received from respective airport operators across the country.

Key Highlights of Winter Schedule 2025

According to official data, a total of 26,495 departures per week have been finalized to and from 126 airports under WS25. This marks an increase from 25,610 departures per week recorded in the Summer Schedule 2025 (SS25), which operated across 129 airports.

The WS25 introduces four new airports to India’s expanding aviation map — Amravati, Hissar, Purnia, and Rupsi — further improving regional connectivity and accessibility. These additions reflect the government’s sustained efforts to promote air travel in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, supporting balanced economic growth and mobility.

However, the schedule also notes the temporary suspension of operations from seven airports: Aligarh, Moradabad, Chitrakoot, Bhavnagar, Ludhiana, Pakyong, and Shravasti, due to operational or seasonal adjustments.

Regional Connectivity Boost

The inclusion of Amravati (Maharashtra), Hissar (Haryana), Purnia (Bihar), and Rupsi (Assam) in WS25 highlights the increasing focus on expanding the domestic aviation network to underserved regions. These new airports will not only provide improved access for passengers but also boost local economies through tourism and trade.

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With the UDAN scheme continuing to empower smaller airports and connect remote regions, the Winter Schedule 2025 aligns with India’s vision of making affordable air travel accessible to every citizen.

Industry Outlook

The 5.95% growth in weekly departures indicates robust recovery and rising passenger demand in the Indian aviation sector. Industry experts note that increased air traffic and new routes will encourage competition, improve service quality, and make air travel more affordable for domestic travelers.

The Winter Schedule 2025 also comes at a time when airlines are expanding fleets, optimizing flight schedules, and focusing on operational efficiency to cater to the upcoming festive and holiday seasons.

The Winter Schedule 2025 (WS25) marks another milestone in India’s aviation growth story, reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing domestic aviation markets in the world. With 26,495 weekly departures across 126 airports and the addition of new regional destinations, India’s skies are set to become busier, better connected, and more accessible than ever before, for more details and complete schedule CLICK HERE