Kannur International Airport – Industry Push Intensifies for ‘Point of Call’ Status to Boost Global Connectivity

Expert Analysis:

• Stakeholders and industry bodies have urged the newly elected Kerala government to secure “Point of Call” (PoC) status for Kannur International Airport, which would allow foreign airlines to directly operate international services from the airport.

• The demand is driven by the airport’s strong passenger base, particularly from the large expatriate population in North Kerala and the Gulf region, which continues to generate substantial outbound traffic.

• Currently, the absence of PoC status limits the airport’s ability to attract international carriers, constraining route expansion and reducing competitiveness compared to other major airports in Kerala.

• Industry representatives argue that granting PoC status could significantly improve international connectivity, tourism inflows, cargo movement, and regional economic development across northern Kerala.

• Kannur International Airport has already developed significant infrastructure capacity, and stakeholders believe improved policy support could unlock better asset utilisation and airline participation.

• The issue also reflects broader concerns around aviation policy alignment, where regional airports seek greater integration into India’s expanding international aviation network amid rising passenger demand.