Air India Express introduced its domestic operations between Mangaluru and Bengaluru, increasing daily air connectivity starting on Wednesday, November 15.
The inaugural flight IX 782, carrying 107 passengers along with two infants, touched down at 12:30 PM and became the first Boeing 737 Max aircraft (VT-BXD) on this route.
Reportedly, with this launch, Mangaluru now has seven daily flights to Bengaluru. The airport celebrated this occasion with a traditional water cannon salute upon the aircraft’s arrival, guided by Captain Gaurav Vashist and the flight was even escorted by a follow me vehicle to the apron.
In addition to the water salute, the airport organized a warm welcome for the first set of passengers at the domestic arrival hall and celebrated the occasion with a cake cutting ceremony. Meanwhile, the return journey, Flight IX 678 for Bengaluru, took off at 1:10 PM, with 92 passengers, including an infant, along with seven crew members and an observer pilot.
Furthermore, Air India Express’s second flight of the day, IX 1795, introduced a new route Kannur-Bengaluru-Mangaluru. The aircraft left Kannur at 4:30 PM and reached Bengaluru at 5:50 PM. This continuous flight then departed Bengaluru at 6:25 PM and arrived in Mangaluru at 7:35 PM. On its return journey, the flight operates as a continuous route to Thiruvananthapuram via Bengaluru. Departing Mangaluru at 8:15 PM, it reaches Bengaluru at 9:30 PM and departs from Bengaluru airport at 10:20 PM and arrives at Kerala’s capital city at 11:25 PM.
Airport Village Project: All You Need to Know
Mangaluru airport is set to undergo a vibrant transformation with the ‘airport village’ project, which is aimed at enhancing the overall airport experience.
The project is intended to offer a variety of amenities including food and beverage options, retail outlets and gaming facilities. Unlike the current setup focusing primarily on passengers, this project will enhance every airport visitor’s experience, creating a lively space. Located on the lower ground floor of the terminal building, this designated area is said to resemble a mall.
As per The Hindu, a spokesperson explained, “What makes this project exciting is the fact that it has been seamlessly dovetailed into the overall development plans that the airport has envisaged as part of the master plan. The whole focus of the master plan will be on creating a unique curated experience, which will not only elevate the travel experience, but also give others the opportunity to soak in the vibrant atmosphere that airports globally strive to provide.”
Currently, the initial phase of the ‘airport village’ project is underway.