NRIs from Kerala have launched a campaign against Air India and Indian for frequent cancellation and delay of flights at the Calicut International airport. They have also demanded an open sky policy for international carriers.The airport has lately been in the news in Kerala and the Gulf, following frequent complaints and even strikes by Gulf-based passengers due to cancellation of flights and the alleged mistreatment of passengers by airline crew.“We are calling for an open sky policy to allow international airlines to operate flights to the airport. It is one of the most crucial airports in India as far as Gulf passengers are concerned,” Chairman of the Gulf Calicut Air Passengers Action Committee (GAPAC), K K Usman said.Calicut airport is used by a major segment of NRIs in Qatar and other Gulf countries but the sector is monopolised by two Indian carriers — the Air India and Indian.According to Usman, “Around 2,000 to 3,000 seats are required every week to meet the demand from Doha-based passengers alone, but the total number of seats offered by the two carriers is not more than 700. The frequent flight delays and cancellations have further worsened the situation.”“We are exploring the possibility of expanding the forum to other Gulf countries by bringing together various organisations in the region under a coordination committee,” he said.
