Reporte – JOHN WILBERT , Port Blair, Andaman Nicobar , 4 July , 2024::
Excitement is building among the residents of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as major positive news circulates on social media: the first international flight route from the islands is set to commence between Port Blair, India, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Starting in November 2024, AirAsia, renowned for its extensive Asian coverage, will begin operating flights between Kuala Lumpur and Port Blair thrice a week. The schedule shows departures from Port Blair at 11:00 AM and arrivals in Malaysia at 4:15 PM.
This development is expected to significantly boost economic growth, particularly in the tourism sector, and enhance various trading markets. Islanders are welcoming the news with great enthusiasm, seeing it as a gateway to broader economic opportunities and increased tourism.
The News Aaptak team spoke with Ibrahim Jadwet, a member of the Veer Savarkar International Airport Advisory Committee, who shared, “We have also received information through social media, but officially, we have no confirmation from the airlines. However, based on ongoing preparations, we believe the information is accurate. If operations commence, our dream of international connectivity will become a reality this year. We are thrilled about the news.”
Jadwet elaborated, “The operation of an international route starting from Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, could also become a transit point for tourists from various countries like Australia, Japan, and America. Foreign tourists can reach Malaysia and then directly travel to the Andaman Islands. This will serve as a gateway to boost our tourism sector. Additionally, people will be able to travel to many other countries through Malaysia without needing to connect via Chennai or Delhi. This development will play a significant role as a gateway for tourism and transit. The fisheries sector could also benefit from easier export options.”
This new international route promises to enhance the connectivity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, fostering growth and opening up new avenues for tourism and trade.
