Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network—Mangalore (PS/CN)
Mangalore, Jan 29: Pascal Pinto, co-ordinator, Coastal Karnataka NRIs Forum in Kuwait, in a press conference held at press club on Saturday January 29, complained about the unfair service by Air India Express in the Gulf–Mangalore sector.
He has urged the state and central government to declare Mangalore Airport an ‘international airport’ in the wake of its diamond jubilee celebration. Pinto said that international status is necessary for the airport for various reasons.
He said that the passengers of this airline are fed up with the bad attitude of Air India Express and the service in this airline is given no priority by the staff. Pinto also complained against the congested seating arrangements.
He said the service of the airline is of inferior quality compared to that of private airlines. “Private airlines allow 40 kg of baggage whereas the Air India Express permits only 27 kg. However, the tickets are priced higher than other airlines. Air India Express is reluctant to operate its more comfortable Airbus 321 on the Gulf-Mangalore sector,” he complained.
Pinto also put forth a few demands including the tourism department taking an interest in developing Kenjar, state and union governments prevailing upon the international private airlines to operate their flights to Mangalore and air cargo complex system to be handled at old airport for the convenience of international passengers, amongst others. Thejomaya, member of the forum, was present at the press meet.