Mangaluru Airport Seeks Point Of Call (PoC) Status amid Rising Demand

PoC status allows foreign airlines to operate services from the airport. Brijesh Chowta, MP for Dakshina Kannada, has shown a strong interest in the matter and has stated his intention to demand the status from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation explained in the Rajya Sabha that PoC status for foreign carriers is granted based on guidelines outlined in bilateral air service agreements, which are periodically signed between India and other countries. Several factors are considered when granting PoC status, including the benefits to India's aviation industry, the size of the Indian community abroad, the strategic expansion plans of Indian airlines, and mutual benefits in bilateral relations.

Chowta highlighted the significant number of people from the coastal region working in Gulf countries and other parts of the world. He expressed frustration that, despite this, the airport has not yet been granted PoC status. "If granted, we will see more flights to Mangaluru, which will benefit the region," he said, adding that he would soon meet with the ministry to discuss the matter.

MIA was designated as an international airport in 2012, but it has yet to receive PoC status. Local aviation enthusiasts have voiced their belief that granting PoC status would further boost the aviation sector.

In addition to the new direct flight to Singapore, Air India Express has introduced additional direct flights to Delhi and Pune. Starting January 2, 2025, the Pune-Mangaluru route will be reconnected, and the Delhi-Mangaluru flight will begin on February 1, 2025. The flights to Delhi will operate in the morning and evening, catering to business travellers. A spokesperson for MIA expressed excitement about these new routes, stating that they would enhance connectivity and support economic and cultural exchanges, while providing a seamless travel experience for passengers.