Jet Airways to start Mangalore-Dubai flights

MANGALORE , Nov 30, 2012: The six year long monopoly of Air India express to the Middle East sector from Mangalore now faces a threat. The second largest Indian airline based in Mumbai, Jet Airways, is expected to start its Dubai services from December 14, which should see competitive fares and better services kick in for the passengers in the Mangalore-Dubai sector. Sources in the travel industry said Jet will offer business class travel from day one, giving relief to passengers who can afford, but could not avail it on Air India Express. Bajpe airport director GT Radhakrishna said "We have not got the dates as yet from the operator. As far as Airports Authority of India is concerned all necessary infrastructures is in place. There are some minor hitches regarding security and staff shortage in some departments, which should be addressed soon. Consultations are going on to this effect". Sources said that Department of Customs had resisted the proposal saying that it faced staff shortage. A customs department official said it was a bogey often raised to blame the department. Customs department needs infrastructure. There is issue of baggage safety also. When they give us required'' infrastructure, we don't mind handling any number of aircrafts. As of now, nearly 20 personnel are working in two shifts at the airport,'' the source said. Jet Airways officials will meet the Mangalore Customs Commissioner, who is in Bangalore on Thursday to sort out the issue, said a travel industry source. According to the tentative schedule worked out by the airlines, the flight will depart to Dubai at around 9 pm and the same flight will arrive at Bajpe at 6 am. Source: Times Of India