Mangaluru airport expands Gulf network with Ras Al Khaimah, Kuwait services; adds 14 services
Mangaluru International Airport will increase weekly flights and add new Gulf and domestic routes in its winter schedule.
Reported by Coastal Digest — Mangaluru–Udupi · context written by Hushread
In brief
- Mangaluru International Airport will raise its weekly flights from 181 to 195 in the winter schedule.
- Fly91 will launch new daily domestic routes connecting Mangaluru with Agatti and Pune, adding 14 weekly flights.
- Air India Express will resume Kuwait service and introduce Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, as a new Gulf destination.
- International departures from Mangaluru are set to increase from 48 to 59 per week across all airlines.
- The expanded network aims to meet rising travel demand from coastal Karnataka and improve Middle East connectivity.
Timeline · 1 moment
Mangaluru airport announces new winter schedule with more Gulf and domestic flights
The Hindu ↗What happened
Mangaluru International Airport announced an expanded winter flight schedule, increasing its weekly flights from 181 to 195. The new schedule introduces 14 additional services, including new domestic and international routes. Fly91 will start daily flights to Agatti and Pune, while Air India Express will resume flights to Kuwait and add Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE as a new destination. Other airlines like IndiGo and Air India Express will also increase frequencies on existing routes, especially to major Indian cities and Gulf destinations.
Why it matters
The expanded schedule will benefit travelers from coastal Karnataka and neighboring districts, offering more options for both domestic and international travel. Improved Gulf connectivity is especially important for residents with ties to the Middle East, supporting business, family visits, and labor migration. The increase in flights is expected to strengthen Mangaluru Airport's role as a key regional gateway.
How we got here
Mangaluru International Airport has been an important hub for travel between coastal Karnataka and the Gulf region. The demand for both domestic and international flights has been rising, prompting airlines to add new routes and increase frequencies. The airport already serves several Gulf destinations, and the new schedule continues this trend by expanding options for travelers.
What happens next
Travelers can expect more flight options starting with the winter schedule. The impact of these changes will depend on passenger response and sustained demand for both domestic and international routes.