CIAL in talks with Air India to retain Kochi-London flight services

Nedumbassery, Kerala: The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has initiated efforts to retain Air India’s Kochi-London service after the airline announced plans to suspend it from March 28. 

Following this, CIAL officials held discussions with Air India on Wednesday, reaching an understanding to resume the service within a few months.

Currently, Air India operates its Dreamliner service from Kochi to London Gatwick on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from Nedumbassery Airport. However, with the conclusion of the winter schedule, the airline informed CIAL that the service would be discontinued from March 28.

Following directions from the Kerala government, CIAL Managing Director S Suhas IAS met Air India officials at their headquarters on Wednesday. The meeting was attended by Air India Group Head P. Balaji and CIAL Airport Director G. Manu.

During the discussions, CIAL proposed a package to make the London service more profitable and explored measures to ensure its continuity. Air India stated that after obtaining the necessary technical approvals, the service could be reinstated within a few months. Additionally, depending on aircraft availability, the airline may consider increasing the frequency of flights on this route.