MP Capt Brijesh Chowta Advocates for Mangaluru Airport’s PoC Status

Capt Brijesh Chowta, a Member of Parliament representing Mangaluru, has called on the Indian government to grant Point of Call (PoC) status to the Mangaluru International Airport. Speaking in the Lok Sabha on December 11, he emphasized the airport’s role as a critical aviation hub for coastal Karnataka and the neighboring state of Kerala.

During the fiscal year 2024–25, Mangaluru International Airport processed approximately 2.34 million passengers, including 715,000 international travelers, and facilitated over 16,800 flight movements. Chowta noted the airport’s impressive annual growth rate of more than 15%, underscoring its significance for regional development and economic expansion.

A substantial population from the Tulunadu region works in Gulf and Middle Eastern countries, relying heavily on Mangaluru airport for their international travel needs. Chowta pointed out that the lack of PoC status restricts foreign airlines from establishing direct international flights to and from the airport. Consequently, passengers often face the inconvenience of traveling via Bengaluru or Kochi, resulting in higher travel costs and prolonged journey times.

Impact of PoC Status on Regional Development

Chowta argued that granting PoC status would significantly enhance international connectivity, allowing for direct flights and expanding aviation operations. This development would not only facilitate smoother travel for overseas workers and their families but also stimulate local trade and investment activities. Industries such as marine exports, arecanut and cashew processing, and petrochemicals stand to benefit from improved logistics and access to global markets.

Furthermore, the MP highlighted that enhanced international accessibility would support the growth of the Mangaluru Special Economic Zone. It could also boost coastal tourism and strengthen the education sector, as institutions like NITK Surathkal and the Manipal Institute of Technology would attract more students, researchers, and visitors from around the world.

Chowta concluded by urging swift action from the union government to facilitate the PoC status, which he believes is essential for harnessing the full potential of Mangaluru International Airport and driving economic growth in the region.