Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Dec 20: Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta has appealed to Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu, to grant "Point of Call" (POC) status to Mangaluru International Airport (MIA). This request comes as the airport already provides direct services to several destinations in Europe, Southeast Asia, and Gulf nations.
Capt Chowta called on the union minister personally in New Delhi to discuss increasing the number of direct flights to overseas countries, based on the airport's growing passenger and cargo handling capacity.
He also highlighted the economic and social benefits that the coastal region would gain from granting the airport "POC" status. Additionally, Chowta discussed plans for the airport’s expansion and the possibility of adding new air routes.
“Mangaluru airport has played a stellar role in connecting Karnataka to other cities of the world. However, despite the airport's ultra-modern facilities and the increase in passengers and cargo, the number of flights from the airport remains limited. If POC status is granted, this issue can be addressed, allowing direct flight services to Middle Eastern and European countries. It will also boost the export of arecanut, cashew, oil products, and seafood, which will further develop the economy of the coastal region,” said Capt Chowta.
In his appeal to the union minister, Capt Chowta emphasised that granting POC status to Mangaluru’s International Airport would help tourism and industries thrive in the coastal region. It would also provide direct flight connections to Gulf nations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, benefiting local entrepreneurs.
Under the civil aviation service agreement, international flights can be designated to fly directly to specific airports, known as POC airports. This designation enhances aerial connectivity between countries, offering passengers more choices and better facilities.
Capt Chowta also met Union External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Thursday to discuss various matters, including the issues faced by NRIs from the coastal region. During the meeting, he presented a framed photograph of Kambala, the traditional sport that symbolises the coastal region’s rich culture.