Services to Kannur, Trichy, Mysore, Tirupati
*Headway for CIAL’s plan for becoming a regional hub; introduces more tier 2 routes *
In line with the State Government's initiative to bolster air connectivity within the state and neighbouring tier 2 cities, Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) is pleased to announce the activation of four new routes in collaboration with Alliance Air. These routes will connect Kochi to Kannur, Mysore, Trichy, and Tirupati. As part of the preparations, CIAL has allocated an overnight parking slot at its bustling domestic apron for a new ATR flight, enabling late-night and early morning services to and from Kochi. The commencement of these routes is anticipated by the end of January.
CIAL's swift response to the State Government's plan is poised to enhance regional connectivity and provide a significant boost to the travel and tourism sector. The newly proposed routes by Alliance Air include Kochi to Kannur, Kochi to Mysore, Kochi to Trichy with an extension to Chennai, and Kochi to Mysore with a continuation to Tirupati. Building on their existing services, Alliance Air, based in Bangalore, has been successfully operating Kochi to Agatti, Kochi to Salem, and Kochi to Bangalore routes. The addition of these routes not only expands the airport's network but also offers travelers increased choices and convenience. This is in addition to the existing regional services being operated by Indigo to Kannur and Trivandrum.
S. Suhas IAS, the Managing Director of CIAL, emphasized the company's commitment to align with the Government's strategy to enhance air connectivity to tier 2 cities. "The Chief Minister, also the chairman of the company, and the board of directors have outlined a blueprint for CIAL, emphasizing the immediate activation of new routes. These additions underscore the airport's dedication to providing passengers with diverse travel options and promote regional air travel possibilities," added Suhas IAS.
These new connections are expected to contribute significantly to the overall growth and accessibility of Cochin International Airport, positioning it as a key hub in the regional sector. As the only airport in the state and the fourth in South India to handle 10 million passengers annually, CIAL has continuously endeavoured to expand its connectivity. The ongoing winter schedule witnesses 1360 weekly services connecting more than 40 destinations in both international and domestic sectors. Additionally, the airport operator has recently launched seven mega projects, including the expansion of its international terminal, to accommodate future traffic growth.
CIAL announces strategic agreement with BPCL to establish first Green Hydrogen plant in an airport in the world
In a strategic move to bolster its pathbreaking green energy initiatives, Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL), the world’s first airport fully powered by solar energy has entered into a memorandum of Understanding with Bharath Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for setting up a green hydrogen plant in the premises of Cochin Airport. This collaborative effort, combining technological prowess and infrastructure, will result in the world’s first Green Hydrogen plant and fueling station located within an airport setting. Green hydrogen, produced from water using renewable energy sources, is recognized as a future fuel and aligns with zero-carbon energy strategies. The agreement exchange ceremony for the Green Hydrogen plant was held at Legislative Complex, Thiruvananthapuram in the presence of Sri. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala & chairman,CIAL. CIAL who has been renowned for its effective deployment of green energy through the installation of big solar plants and a hydel station now has a cumulative installed capacity of 50 MW producing two hundred thousand units of power a day. Ever since the installation of its first plant with a capacity of 12 MW, it has been augmenting its capabilities and now inked an MOU for a strategic collaboration with BPCL for setting up a 1000 KW pilot project at the airport premises. Under the agreement, BPCL will oversee the establishment of the integrated Green Hydrogen plant and fueling station at Kochi Airport, providing technology and managing the operations. CIAL will contribute suitable land, water, and green energy resources. The initial output of the plant will be utilized for powering vehicles within the airport. “As pioneers in sustainable aviation, CIAL is happy to start a groundbreaking journey with BPCL towards establishing the country's first Green Hydrogen plant in an airport at CIAL”, said CIAL Managing Director, S. Suhas IAS. He also said that
this strategic collaboration underscores CIAL’s commitment to green energy and propels closer towards a zero-carbon future in the aviation landscape. BPCL's Chairman & Managing Director, G. Krishnakumar, highlighted the collaboration as a pivotal moment in the journey towards sustainable solutions. He underscored the significance of innovation and partnership in driving meaningful change, emphasizing BPCL's commitment to India's energy independence through initiatives like "AatmaNirbhar Bharat" as evidenced by the indigenous electrolyser showcased at India Energy Week 2024 by BPCL. P. Rajeeve, minister for Industries, Dr. V. Venu IAS, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Kerala, K. R. Jyothilal IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, GAD & Power, Suman Billa IAS, Principal Secretary, Industries and NORKA, V. R. K Gupta, Director (Finance), BPCL, Shelly Abraham, Executive Director (SCO), BPCL, Ranjan Nair (Head Renewable Energy), BPCL,Saji K. George, Executive Director & Company Secretary, CIAL, Joseph Peter Painunkal, General Manager (Commercial), CIAL were also present during the event.
CIASL academy gets Airport Council International’s accreditation
Cochin International Aviation Services Limited (CIASL) Academy, a subsidiary of Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), has achieved a significant milestone by receiving accreditation from Airport Council International (ACI) as an Accredited Training Partner (ATP). The ACI had conducted a rigorous evaluation process before granting the accreditation.
During the official ceremony, P. Rajeeve, Minister of Industries, Law & Coir and Director, CIAL, has unveiled the ACI plaque/certificate of Accredited Training Partner (ATP), issued by ACI Montreal, Canada in the presence of S. Suhas, IAS, Manging Director, CIAL.
Hon’ble minister also inaugurated the state-of-the-art smart classroom constructed on global standards equipped to deliver classes to international students and host classes from outside India. The educational setting furnishes an exceptional learning experience, augmenting the global appeal of the academy.
The inauguration of the classes of the first batch of students, consisting of 42 individuals, who will be undergoing the ACI endorsed basic training program on Aviation Management was also done by the hon’ble minister. This marked the beginning of an educational journey that promises to elevate their skills in aviation management.
“I am happy to inaugurate the session and unveiling the prestigious Airport Council International (ACI) accreditation plaque at the Cochin International Aviation Services Limited (CIASL) Academy. The Academy is also now home to an International-level classroom, where students can not only receive top-notch education but also connect with peers globally. This state-of-the-art facility positions CIASL as a hub for international learning, fostering a dynamic environment for students to thrive in the aviation industry”, said minister P. Rajeeve. “As we celebrate this momentous occasion, let's look forward to a future where CIASL Academy continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in aviation education”, he added.
The students now have the opportunity to create their ACI Learning Hub accounts—an online platform that consolidates all ACI courses, program materials, and training certificates in one accessible location. This international recognition is expected to bring attention to the students and further enhance their career prospects in the global aviation industry.