| Kannur International Airport stands out as one of the key airports in Kerala, nestled near Mattannur, just about 28 kilometers east of Kannur city. It's run by Kannur International Airport Limited (KIAL), a collaboration between the public and private sectors, with a significant stake held by the Government of Kerala alongside various private and institutional investors. The airport was created to enhance connectivity and spur economic development in the Malabar region.
Inaugurated on December 9, 2018, Kannur International Airport became the fourth international airport in Kerala, joining the ranks of Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode. Its prime location has turned it into a crucial gateway for travelers from North Kerala and neighboring areas, including Karnataka. The airport boasts a runway that stretches 3,050 meters (10,007 feet), making it capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 777 and Airbus A330.
The passenger terminal spans an impressive 97,000 square meters and is designed to cater to up to 5 million passengers each year. It features modern amenities like duty-free shopping, lounges, food courts, and efficient baggage handling systems. Kannur International Airport operates both domestic and international flights, with popular destinations including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Muscat, serviced by major airlines like Air India, Indigo, and Go First.
The airport authority has been instrumental in boosting the local economy by promoting tourism, trade, and job opportunities. It also serves the large non-resident Keralite (NRK) community working in the Gulf countries. With its cutting-edge infrastructure and expanding network, Kannur International Airport has become a vital transportation hub in Kerala.
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