The resumption of direct flights reflects the growing demand for stronger air connectivity between India and the Gulf, where millions of Indians live and work
Direct flight services between Mangaluru and Muscat are set to restart in March, bringing major relief to thousands of travellers from India’s coastal Karnataka region living in Oman. The announcement was made by Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, following efforts by local leaders to restore the crucial air link.
Kota Shrinivas Poojary, Member of Parliament from Udupi–Chikkamagaluru, had earlier raised the issue with the Civil Aviation Ministry, highlighting the difficulties faced by passengers after the route was suspended.
With no direct flights, many travellers had to take connecting routes via other Indian or Gulf airports, leading to longer journeys and higher ticket costs
After discussions with Air India, the airline agreed to resume operations on the Mangaluru–Muscat sector from next month. The move is expected to benefit people from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and nearby districts who travel frequently to Oman for work, business, education and family visits. The region has a large expatriate population in the Gulf, and direct connectivity has long been considered essential for both personal and economic reasons.
Expatriates and frequent flyers have welcomed the decision, calling it a much-needed step that will save time and reduce travel expenses. Many also see the restored route as a boost for trade, tourism and people-to-people ties between coastal Karnataka and Oman.
The resumption of direct flights reflects the growing demand for stronger air connectivity between India and the Gulf, where millions of Indians live and work. For the coastal diaspora, the return of the Mangaluru–Muscat flight is more than just a travel convenience—it is a lifeline that connects families, businesses and communities across the Arabian Sea.
