Mangaluru: Fulfilling a long-standing demand of passengers and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and neighbouring Kerala, direct flight services between Mangaluru and Muscat are set to resume from March 1.
Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta announced that Air India Express will operate the flights connecting Mangaluru and Muscat. The resumption comes after persistent representations from the coastal community, many of whom travel to Oman for employment and business.
Capt Chowta stated that he had written to the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation urging the reinstatement of the service, highlighting the hardships faced by expatriates and their families following its earlier suspension.
Twice-weekly operations announced
According to the announced schedule, Air India Express will operate the direct flights twice a week, on Sundays and Tuesdays. The service is expected to significantly cut travel time and eliminate the need for layovers in other Indian cities.
For months, passengers had been compelled to travel via Delhi, Mumbai or Kannur after the direct service was abruptly suspended. This not only increased travel duration but also escalated costs, especially during peak seasons when fares surged considerably.
The restoration of the direct route is expected to benefit thousands of NRIs from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, as well as travellers from parts of north Kerala who prefer Mangaluru International Airport due to proximity and convenience.
Relief for coastal NRIs
The coastal Karnataka region has a sizeable expatriate population in Gulf countries, particularly in Oman. Muscat serves as a key destination for workers engaged in construction, healthcare, retail, hospitality and other sectors.
Community leaders and expatriate associations had repeatedly urged authorities to reinstate the service, pointing out that seamless air connectivity is vital for maintaining family ties, facilitating business travel and ensuring timely return during emergencies.
With the resumption of the Mangaluru–Muscat flights, passengers can now look forward to a more direct and hassle-free journey. The move is also expected to boost passenger traffic at Mangaluru International Airport and strengthen economic and social ties between the coastal region and Oman.
MP expresses gratitude to Centre
Expressing his gratitude, Capt Brijesh Chowta thanked the Union government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu for responding positively to the consistent efforts and representations made to resume the vital air link.
He said the restoration of the service reflects the government’s responsiveness to the concerns of NRIs and frequent flyers from coastal Karnataka.
Passengers are advised to check the official Air India Express website and authorised booking platforms for updated schedules, fares and baggage policies.
With operations commencing from March 1, the reinstated service is expected to ease travel for thousands and reinforce Mangaluru’s position as a key international gateway for the region.