Air India Express has introduced a new daily direct flight connecting Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) to Delhi International Airport, enhancing air connectivity for Karnataka travelers. This service provides greater flexibility and convenience for both business and leisure passengers, catering to the growing demand for seamless travel options.
The inaugural flight, IX 1552, departed Mangaluru at 6:40 AM and landed in Delhi at 9:35 AM on February 1, while the return flight, IX 2768, took off from Delhi at the same time and reached Mangaluru by 9:35 AM. The maiden journey carried 167 passengers to Delhi and 144 passengers to Mangaluru, marking a significant milestone for regional connectivity. The Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) unit welcomed the first flight with a water cannon salute, celebrating the occasion.
A spokesperson from Mangaluru Airport expressed optimism about the route, stating that it will benefit travelers while improving transit options for domestic and international connections. The new service complements an existing evening flight by IndiGo, now offering passengers two direct daily flights between Mangaluru and Delhi, reducing travel time and increasing flexibility.
With this expansion, Express continues to strengthen its regional and national footprint. In January, the airline also introduced weekend flights connecting Mangaluru to Pune, further boosting tourism, trade, and education. By increasing connectivity, Express contributes to the economic growth of Karnataka, reinforcing its commitment to accessible and efficient air travel.