Kerala Travel Agencies Launch Emergency Charter Flights Amid Gulf Crisis
As the ongoing Gulf crisis continues to severely disrupt regular airline operations, travel agencies across Kerala have swiftly mobilized to provide a critical emergency travel lifeline. They are organizing chartered flights specifically for stranded expatriates who are desperately trying to return home to India.
Daily Chartered Services from Gulf Destinations
Several travel operators have initiated arrangements for daily chartered services originating from various Gulf destinations, with a primary focus on the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. These flights are destined for airports in Kerala and other parts of India, offering a vital connection during this period of uncertainty.
Alhind Tours and Travels is at the forefront of this effort, currently operating two to three flights daily from the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The flights are primarily arranged from Fujairah International Airport and Ras Al Khaimah Airport in the UAE, directly connecting to airports in Kerala.
High Demand from Stranded Passengers
Mohammed Shabeer, the regional director of Alhind Tours and Travels, highlighted the urgent need for these services. "There is a substantial number of passengers stranded across Gulf countries, including individuals whose visiting visas are nearing expiration or those facing other pressing emergencies. With continued uncertainty surrounding the resumption of regular flight operations, these chartered flights are currently providing essential connectivity for expatriates striving to return home. All flights are operating at full capacity," Shabeer explained.
He further noted that the agency is actively exploring additional logistical solutions. This includes facilitating travel for expatriates from Qatar and Kuwait by road to airports where the chartered flights to Kerala are being operated, thereby expanding access to this emergency service.
Operational Challenges and Higher Fares
Since these flights require obtaining necessary permissions from aviation authorities, schedules are often announced with very short notice, sometimes as little as 24 hours in advance. This adds to the operational complexity but is necessary to comply with regulatory requirements.
Shabeer also pointed out that ticket fares are comparatively higher due to the significant operational costs involved in chartering aircraft. Currently, fares range between AED 2,000 and AED 3,000, depending on the specific flight sector and destination.
Other Agencies Joining the Effort
Other prominent travel agencies, including Akbar Travels, have also organized similar chartered flights to assist stranded passengers in returning to Kerala. This collective effort mirrors strategies adopted during the Covid-19 pandemic when regular international flights were suspended, and thousands of expatriates sought alternative ways to return home.
The proactive response from Kerala's travel industry underscores a critical adaptation to geopolitical disruptions, ensuring that expatriates have a reliable, albeit costly and last-minute, option for repatriation during times of crisis.
