Saudia Flight Services Resume at Calicut International Airport After Five-Year Hiatus
In a significant development for air travel in Kerala, Saudia flight services have officially resumed operations at Calicut International Airport in Kozhikode. This marks the end of a five-year suspension that had impacted connectivity between the Malabar region and Saudi Arabia.
Traditional Welcome Marks the Historic Return
The inaugural flight touched down at the airport at precisely 8:02 AM on Sunday morning, where it was greeted with a vibrant traditional welcome ceremony. The event featured captivating performances of kolkali, arabana muttu, and chingari melam, reflecting the cultural richness of the region and celebrating this milestone in aviation.
Initial Flight Schedule and Future Expansion Plans
During the initial phase, Saudia will operate flights four days a week, specifically on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. This structured schedule aims to provide consistent and reliable service for passengers traveling between Kerala and Saudi Arabia.
Looking ahead, the airline has announced plans to launch additional services to key Saudi cities, including Jeddah and Dammam, in the coming days. This expansion is expected to bring substantial relief to the large expatriate community from the region, facilitating easier travel for work, family visits, and pilgrimage purposes.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Regional Connectivity
The resumption of Saudia flights is poised to strengthen air connectivity significantly, fostering closer economic and cultural ties between Malabar and Saudi Arabia. It represents a positive step towards enhancing regional aviation infrastructure and supporting the travel needs of thousands of passengers annually.
