KOCHI: Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) has shattered its previous financial records, posting an all-time high net profit of ₹489.84 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25. The announcement was made during the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, where a substantial 50% dividend for its shareholders was also approved.
During the fiscal year, CIAL generated its highest-ever revenue, touching ₹1,142 crore. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who inaugurated the AGM, lauded the airport’s performance, highlighting its commitment to growth and passenger satisfaction.
“This year has been remarkable for CIAL not only in terms of financial growth but also operational excellence and passenger satisfaction,” said Chief Minister Vijayan. He noted that for the third consecutive year, Kochi airport handled over 10 million passengers and managed 76,068 aircraft movements.
The impressive financial results prompted the Board of Directors to recommend a 50% dividend, a move endorsed at the AGM, which will benefit CIAL’s 30,000 shareholders spread across 30 countries.
Massive Expansion and Infrastructure Projects Underway
The record profits will fuel a series of large-scale infrastructure projects currently valued at approximately ₹1,400 crore. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing capacity and passenger experience. Key projects include:
- International Terminal Expansion: Work is advancing rapidly, with 50% of the new apron construction already completed.
- New Facilities: An import cargo terminal, an animal quarantine facility, the ‘0484’ aero lounge, and a new Taj Hotel are expected to commence operations shortly.
- Digitization: CIAL has launched “CIAL 2.0,” a comprehensive program for the full digitization of airport operations.
Beyond aviation, CIAL is also focusing on boosting its non-aeronautical revenue through the development of a commercial zone and a golf tourism project. The airport continues to earn global recognition for its renewable energy initiatives, with a total installed capacity of 50MW.
Commitment to Community Development
As part of its social responsibility, CIAL is undertaking crucial infrastructure work in areas surrounding the airport. Chief Minister Vijayan inaugurated the construction of three bridges in Puliyampilly, Madathimoola, and Chowara. The ₹40 crore project, part of ‘Operation Pravah’ to mitigate flood threats, is expected to be completed within 18 months and will significantly benefit residents of four local panchayats.
