The Year-on-Year comparison of Passenger Load Factor (PLF) in India measures the annual change in the occupancy rate of airline seats — that is, the percentage of available seating capacity actually filled by passengers on scheduled flights. In both domestic and international air transport markets, it is a crucial indicator of airline efficiency and demand utilisation. While a lower PLF indicates underutilised capacity or weak demand, a higher PLF indicates that airlines are operating flights closer to full capacity, indicating strong passenger demand and optimal resource use. When evaluating the operational health, profitability, and performance of the Indian aviation industry, the Year-on-Year PLF comparison is essential. It assists in determining patterns in passenger movement by season, route efficiency, and travel demand. Monitoring PLF growth or decline helps airlines and policymakers with pricing strategies, capacity planning, and route optimisation. Strong consumer confidence, economic expansion, and better air connectivity are all reflected in a persistent rise in PLF; on the other hand, a decline could be a sign of increased competition, fare pressure, or macroeconomic challenges. In order to achieve sustainable airline operations and infrastructure planning under programs like UDAN and the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP), it is crucial to regularly monitor PLF trends as India develops into a global aviation hub.