Air India Express has introduced a new daily direct flight service connecting Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) with Delhi International Airport, aimed at boosting air connectivity for travelers in Karnataka. This new service offers enhanced travel convenience and flexibility, catering to both business and leisure passengers.
The inaugural flight, IX 1552, took off from Mangaluru at 6:40 AM and landed in Delhi at 9:35 AM on February 1. Simultaneously, IX 2768 departed from Delhi at 6:40 AM and arrived in Mangaluru at 9:35 AM. Passengers on the first flight were welcomed with a water cannon salute, a special gesture by the Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) unit at Mangaluru International Airport.
The maiden flight carried 167 passengers to Delhi, while 144 passengers arrived in Mangaluru from Delhi. A spokesperson from Mangaluru Airport expressed enthusiasm about the new service, stating, “This new service will not only benefit business and leisure travelers but also enhance transit options for those traveling to other domestic and international destinations. We are committed to strengthening connectivity and supporting the region’s growing travel needs.”
With this new addition, there are now two direct daily flights between Mangaluru and Delhi, complementing an existing evening service operated by IndiGo. The new route is expected to reduce travel time and provide passengers with more options when traveling between the two cities.
In January, Air India Express also launched two weekend flights connecting Mangaluru to Pune, further expanding its regional connectivity. With the launch of the Delhi route, the airline is poised to support trade, tourism, and education while contributing to economic growth in the region.
(With PTI Inputs)