Mangaluru: Mangaluru International Airport (IXE) has reinforced its commitment to safety and passenger security with the inauguration of new facilities for the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The upgrades include a customised training ground for the Quick Response Team (QRT), three new kennels for the K9 squad, and a Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar (KPKB) canteen for CISF personnel.

The inauguration, held on September 8, 2025, was led by Jose Mohan, Inspector-General of Police, Airport Sector (APS)-2, CISF, and attended by senior officials from both the airport management and CISF’s Airport Security Group (ASG).

Enhancing operational efficiency

The QRT training ground has been designed to sharpen the physical and tactical preparedness of CISF personnel. Equipped with customised drills, the facility enables security teams to simulate real-life scenarios requiring speed, memory, endurance, and teamwork.

Complementing this upgrade, the new kennels will provide better housing and care for the K9 squad, which currently includes two Belgian Malinois and two Labradors. These canines are integral to airport security operations, using their agility and keen sense of smell to detect potential threats.

During the inauguration, the K9 squad showcased its skills, while the QRT demonstrated tactical drills, giving stakeholders a glimpse into the high standards of preparedness at IXE.

Welfare initiatives for CISF staff

The addition of the Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandar canteen marks a significant step in improving welfare measures for CISF staff. By offering daily-use items at subsidised rates, the canteen supports the wellbeing of personnel tasked with the demanding responsibility of securing one of Karnataka’s busiest airports.

Officials emphasised that while the training ground and kennels directly enhance operational readiness, the canteen reflects a holistic approach to security — where morale and welfare are considered as important as physical infrastructure.

Airport and CISF collaboration

Speaking at the event, IGP Jose Mohan commended the collaborative spirit between Mangaluru International Airport and the CISF Airport Security Group. He reaffirmed APS-2’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure that enhances both public safety and passenger service delivery.

Senior airport officials echoed this sentiment, noting that the security enhancements align with the airport’s broader vision of providing passengers with not only seamless travel but also a strong sense of safety.

Benchmark for passenger-centric safety

Mangaluru International Airport, managed by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), has consistently prioritised security while enhancing passenger experience. With record passenger traffic of 2.32 million in FY 2024–25, IXE continues to evolve as a digitally inclusive, tech-savvy, and secure tier-II airport.

These latest infrastructure additions position the airport as a benchmark for integrating security preparedness with customer-centric innovation. By strengthening QRT and K9 operations and supporting CISF personnel welfare, the airport ensures both resilience against threats and comfort for travellers.

About Mangaluru International Airport

Mangaluru International Airport Limited is operated by Adani Airport Holdings Limited, a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Limited. The Adani Group’s vision is to develop IXE into India’s safest tabletop airport while expanding its role as a major travel hub for the region.

With a strong focus on sustainability, process efficiency, and customer experience, Mangaluru airport is positioning itself as the preferred gateway for both domestic and international travel in coastal Karnataka.

Conclusion

The inauguration of new CISF facilities at Mangaluru International Airport underscores the airport’s focus on security, preparedness, and staff welfare. As passenger numbers continue to grow, these enhancements ensure that safety standards remain robust, making IXE one of the most secure and passenger-friendly airports in India.