Kozhikode: Air India Express has announced reduction in services from Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode, effective with the upcoming summer schedule starting in April.

The weekly services from Kozhikode to Sharjah have been reduced from 10 to 9. One service has been rerouted to Kannur airport. Similarly, the weekly services to Ras Al-Khaimah have been reduced from 6 to 5, with one service also being redirected to Kannur airport.

Out of all the weekly services from Dammam, 3 have been rescheduled to Kannur airport. As a result, Kozhikode airport now faces a shortfall of 2000 seats. Air India has shown a lack of interest in services from Karipur for some time, after its takeover by Tata.

Moreover, Air India has ceased its flights from Dubai-Sharjah services and reduced 6 domestic services to 3. This new development takes place amidst ongoing protests against the previous changes.

The aircraft involved in the accident on August 7, 2020, was operated by Air India. Investigations revealed that the accident was caused from issues within the aircraft itself. Passenger organisations have accused Air India of attempting to close down Karipur airport by reducing its services. Reports indicate that at one point, Karipur International Airport contributed 40% of Air India's income.