Kannur’s business community urges government to allow foreign airlines to operate at the local airport, promoting economic growth and international connectivity.

A small group of individuals from Kerala, including hoteliers, tour operators, and architects, held a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on December 17, demanding the government grant “point of call” (POC) status to the Kannur airport, which would allow international airlines to operate direct flights to the airport. The group claimed that the airport has been granted POC status to other airports in India, including Mopa airport in Goa, Bagdogra airport in West Bengal, and Bhogapuram airport in Andhra Pradesh. The protesters criticized the current situation, where flights from Kannur to Dubai can cost up to ₹30,000, while flights from nearby Kozhikode airport can cost a third of that amount. They also highlighted the potential for “Ayurveda tourism” and business class opportunities if international airlines were allowed to operate at Kannur airport. The government has refused to grant POC status to Karnataka’s Mangaluru airport, citing the need to safeguard Indian airlines’ interests. The group is seeking a flexible aviation policy to accommodate the unique needs of the region.