Mangaluru: Karnataka Assembly Speaker U T Khader has formally urged Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu to grant Point of Call (PoC) status to Mangaluru International Airport (IXE) under the open skies policy.
In his appeal, Khader emphasized that the designation would allow international carriers — especially from ASEAN and SAARC nations — to operate direct flights to Mangaluru. This move, he stressed, would significantly improve global air links, catalyze economic development, and boost tourism and cultural exchange.
Strategic Significance
Mangaluru’s strategic location and excellent global connectivity — especially with the Middle East, Far East, Europe, the USA, Australia, and New Zealand — make it a prime candidate for international flight access. The airport recently handled 2.32 million passengers in FY 2024-25, underscoring its growing importance.
Support for Coastal Communities
Khader highlighted the large diaspora from coastal Karnataka residing across ASEAN and SAARC nations, who frequently travel to Mangaluru for family visits, business, and cultural events. Direct international routes, he noted, would improve travel convenience and stimulate the regional economy.
Currently, only Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has PoC status in Karnataka, while neighboring Kerala hosts multiple such airports. “Mangaluru deserves to be Karnataka’s second PoC,” Khader asserted.
The proposed upgrade would also enhance perishable goods exports, generate employment, and support growth in tourism, education, healthcare, and trade.