Air India Express Cancels Kerala Flights, Kuwait Expats Face Problems

Air India Express has upset Indian expatriates in Kuwait by announcing it will suspend flights to Kozhikode and Kannur in its upcoming winter schedule. This comes after the airline stopped its Kuwait–Goa service, cutting off the only direct flights between Kuwait and parts of Kerala’s Malabar region. Thousands of expatriates now face difficulty planning travel to see family and friends.

Community groups have raised concerns about how this will affect travel plans. The Kozhikode District NRI Association (KDNA) warned that thousands of passengers rely on these flights for direct travel. Without them, travelers may need to book multiple flights, which are more expensive and take longer.

Direct Flights to Malabar Region Are Stopped

Kozhikode and Kannur are important destinations for Indian expatriates in Kuwait. Many have family and friends in the region and prefer direct flights to reach home quickly. The suspension of winter flights means travelers now have to rely on indirect routes, which take longer and cost more.

Passengers have already complained about Air India Express’ irregular operations. Delays, last-minute schedule changes, and high fares during peak seasons have frustrated travelers. Some fares have reportedly risen up to four times the normal price, making trips unaffordable for many families.

KDNA Asks for Immediate Government Help

KDNA Acting President Ilyas Thottathil and Acting General Secretary Syam Prasad called for urgent government intervention. They urged Kuwait authorities, Kuwait Airways, and Jazeera Airways to consider direct flights to Kozhikode and Kannur. According to them, these flights would reduce the travel stress for thousands of expatriates.

The leaders said that this suspension shows a long-term neglect of Malabar expatriates’ travel needs. They highlighted that direct flights are vital, especially for older people, students, and professionals who cannot afford long detours.

Reduced Flights May Affect Travel Beyond Gulf

Air India Express has also announced plans to reduce flights from Kerala airports to the Gulf region. This may impact not only travel to GCC countries but also onward flights to Europe via Gulf hubs.

With fewer flights, the remaining options may become overcrowded. Experts predict that fares could rise further, especially during the busy winter season. Reduced competition may make travel even more expensive and inconvenient.

Higher Ticket Fares Are Likely

Expatriates in Kuwait are already frustrated. Many struggle to find affordable flights, especially during festivals and holiday seasons. With no direct alternatives, travelers may need to take flights with layovers in other Gulf countries like the UAE, Oman, or Qatar. This increases both travel time and costs.

Travel agencies expect fares on the remaining flights to rise sharply. Last-minute bookings may also push prices higher. Families may face financial strain, while students and professionals may struggle to plan travel efficiently.

Community Leaders Criticize Airline

KDNA and other organizations have criticized Air India Express for being unpredictable. Delays, cancellations, and irregular schedules have created uncertainty for passengers. Leaders say that suspending winter flights only worsens the problem, leaving many stranded or forced to make last-minute travel changes.

Ilyas Thottathil, KDNA Acting President, said:
“The situation is especially hard for families who want to visit loved ones during winter and holiday seasons. Flights are not just transportation—they are links to family and community.”

Need for Direct Flights from Kuwait

Community leaders have asked other airlines to step in and provide direct flights to Kerala. Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways are potential candidates to help restore connectivity. Direct flights would make travel easier, faster, and more affordable for expatriates.

They also stressed that airlines must plan schedules better. Thousands of Indians live in Kuwait and other Gulf countries. Reliable and predictable flights are essential to keep families connected and maintain cultural and social ties.

Effects on Gulf-Kerala Travel

The suspension of flights has wider consequences. Fewer options may create overcrowding on remaining flights, especially during busy travel periods. Indirect routes may require transiting through other Gulf countries, increasing travel time and stress.

For working professionals, students, and families, these delays and long journeys create added challenges. Planning travel around work schedules, children’s education, and family events becomes harder.

Economic and Social Impact

Air connectivity is important for both social and economic reasons. Expatriates contribute to the economy and maintain cultural links with Kerala. Fewer flights may reduce this connectivity, affecting trade, tourism, and family visits.

Leaders call for coordinated action between airlines, government, and expatriate organizations. Quick intervention could help reduce travel difficulties for thousands of passengers.

Airline Has Not Commented

Air India Express has not released an official statement about why winter flights are suspended. This lack of information has increased frustration among passengers who hoped to plan their trips in advance.

Community advocates say airlines must communicate better. Clear schedules and early announcements help passengers plan and avoid last-minute confusion.

Need for Long-Term Solutions

The situation highlights the need for better air connectivity between Kerala and the Gulf. Airlines should offer predictable schedules, reasonable fares, and direct flights to meet the needs of expatriates.

For Indian expatriates in Kuwait, flights are more than just transportation—they are a connection to family, home, and culture. Reliable air services are vital for keeping social and family ties strong.

In summary, Air India Express’ decision to suspend flights to Kozhikode and Kannur, along with reducing flights from Kerala to the Gulf, has caused major challenges for Indian expatriates in Kuwait. Community leaders are urging the government to intervene and other airlines to provide direct flights. With fares expected to rise and travel options limited, the need for sustainable, affordable, and reliable air services is clear.