Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) has crossed a major financial milestone, reporting its highest-ever net profit of ₹502 crore for the financial year 2025-26. The airport operator also plans to expand beyond airport operations by entering the consultancy market and offering its expertise to other airports across India.
CIAL’s net profit rose from ₹499 crore in the previous financial year, marking the first time in the company’s history that annual profit has crossed the ₹500-crore mark. Its total revenue increased 6.6% year-on-year to ₹1,220 crore.
The company’s board has also recommended a 55% dividend for investors. The proposal will require approval at CIAL’s Annual General Meeting scheduled for September.
CIAL Sees Opportunity in India’s Airport Expansion
One of the most significant decisions taken by the newly constituted board is CIAL’s plan to provide consultancy services to other airports.
India’s aviation sector is expected to see more than ₹50,000 crore in infrastructure investment over the next decade. CIAL intends to tap into this opportunity by using its operational experience and expertise to advise airports on a range of projects.
The proposed consultancy services will cover areas including airport master planning, runway development, cargo operations, ground handling, duty-free operations, commercial development and real estate management.
The move could create a new revenue stream for CIAL while allowing the company to take its experience in airport development and management to other projects across the country.
Passenger Traffic Remains Strong
CIAL handled 1,14,42,583 passengers during 2025-26, along with 73,134 aircraft movements. The airport also retained its distinction of handling more than one crore passengers for the fourth consecutive financial year.
The sustained passenger traffic comes as CIAL continues to strengthen its position as one of Kerala’s key aviation hubs.
New Board Takes Charge
The latest board meeting was also significant for CIAL’s leadership structure, with the first board chaired by the Chief Minister in his capacity as chairman.
Ministers P.K. Kunhalikutty and Roji M. John joined the board, along with Chief Secretary Biswanath Sinha IAS, Bharat Bhushan, Aruna Sundararajan, M.A. Yusuff Ali, N.V. George, Varghese Jacob and CIAL Managing Director S. Suhas IAS.
With record profitability, strong passenger volumes and plans to enter airport consultancy, CIAL is looking to build its next phase of growth beyond its traditional airport operations. The expansion into consultancy could position the Kerala-based airport company to play a wider role in India’s rapidly developing aviation infrastructure market.
