Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Oct 25: The long-awaited demand of coastal residents for a direct air connection between Mangaluru and Kerala’s capital city, Thiruvananthapuram, is finally set to become a reality. Starting this winter schedule, Air India Express will commence direct flight services between the two cities, marking a major boost in regional connectivity.
Confirming the development, an Air India Express (AIE) spokesperson said the airline will operate the service thrice a week. “After several years of demand, Mangaluru and Thiruvananthapuram will finally be connected by direct flights. Bookings for the route have already opened on the airline’s official website from October 18,” the spokesperson stated.
As per the flight schedule, Flight IX 5531 will depart from Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) at 9.15 am and arrive at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TIA) at 10.35 am on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The return flight, IX 5532, will take off from TIA at 4.25 am and reach MIA at 5.45 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The maiden flight is scheduled to operate on October 27.
The airline said the new route is expected to benefit students, pilgrims, and medical as well as business travelers. “There has been a consistent demand from both cities for a convenient and faster travel option,” the spokesperson added.
Travel operators in Mangaluru also welcomed the announcement, noting that several people from Thiruvananthapuram and nearby areas frequently visit the coastal region for medical treatments and temple visits. “Until now, they had to rely on trains or private vehicles, which took over 10 hours. This direct flight will save significant time and offer much-needed comfort,” a travel agent commented.
At present, Mangaluru and Thiruvananthapuram are connected by Vande Bharat Express and other superfast trains. While the Vande Bharat takes around nine hours, superfast trains take up to 13 hours. Bus services between the two cities also take nearly 14 hours.
The launch of this new direct flight not only meets a long-pending public demand but also strengthens Mangaluru’s air connectivity within the southern corridor. There is also growing demand for direct flights from Mangaluru to Kochi, which authorities are hopeful may be considered in the near future.