BENGALURU- Air India Express (IX), a Tata Group-owned low-cost carrier (LCC), is set to enhance its international footprint with the launch of non-stop flights between Mangalore (IXE) and Singapore (SIN).
Scheduled to commence on January 21, 2025, this new route represents the airline’s first foray into Southeast Asia from the coastal city of Mangalore.
Air India Express Mangalore to Singapore
The airline’s decision to introduce this service reflects its commitment to diversifying its
international offerings beyond the Middle Eastern markets that have traditionally been its
stronghold.
The flights will operate twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays, offering travelers a convenient schedule for both business and leisure trips to the vibrant city-state of Singapore.
Flight Schedule:
- IX862: Departure from Mangalore at 5:55 AM, arriving in Singapore at 1:25 PM local
time. - IX861: Departure from Singapore at 2:25 PM local time, returning to Mangalore at
4:55 PM.
These flights will utilize the airline’s efficient Boeing 737 aircraft, ensuring a comfortable and reliable travel experience.
New Gateway to Southeast Asia
Singapore will mark the ninth international destination served from Mangalore by Air India
Express. The airline currently operates flights from the city to a range of Gulf destinations, including Jeddah, Kuwait, Bahrain, Doha, Dammam, Muscat, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.
This new addition is particularly significant as it breaks away from the airline’s Gulf-centric
network from the city.
Singapore becomes the first Southeast Asian destination served by Air India Express from Mangalore, signaling a strategic shift toward exploring new markets.
With the addition of Singapore, Air India Express now connects Mangalore to nine international destinations, with frequency ranging from once weekly to twice daily depending on the route.
The launch of flights to Singapore adds diversity to the city’s connectivity, providing a gateway for passengers to explore a destination known for its economic vibrancy, cultural diversity, and tourism appeal.
Mangalore-Singapore Market Dynamics
The Mangalore-Singapore route has seen limited demand in recent years, with approximately 2,500 passengers recorded during the financial year 2023-24.
These numbers suggest that the demand for non-stop connectivity between the two cities is relatively modest compared to the Gulf sectors.
However, the airline appears to be banking on its ability to stimulate demand through competitive pricing, efficient schedules, and the convenience of direct flights.
By opening up this route, Air India Express aims to tap into a market that includes not only leisure travelers but also business professionals and students.
Strategic Expansion
This move aligns with Air India Express’s strategy to expand its footprint in the international market. By venturing into Southeast Asia, the airline is signaling its intent to diversify its network while catering to evolving passenger preferences from the city.
Currently, the airline operates flights to Singapore from three Indian cities: Tiruchirappalli
with twice-daily services, Chennai with eight weekly flights, and Madurai with six weekly
flights (soon to be reduced to four weekly).
The airline’s entry into the Mangalore-Singapore sector is also expected to boost economic
ties between the two regions. It offers businesses and travelers a direct connection to one
of Asia’s most important financial hubs
Tail Note
The introduction of non-stop flights between Mangalore and Singapore by Air India Express
marks a bold move, despite the currently low point-to-point traffic.
Whether this strategic foray into Southeast Asia will prove successful remains to be seen.
All Photos by Harsh Tekriwal | Instagram
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