India’s third busiest airport, the Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB/BLR Airport) processed 180,745 kgs of pomegranates from April to August 2020, to emerge as the leading airport for pomegranate exports from the country.

International repatriation flights as well as the Government of India’s Vande Bharat Mission and Air Bubble programmes have enabled Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB/BLR Airport) to reconnect Bengaluru to 14 international destinations.

A total of 6,037 Indian nationals were evacuated to the country in 31 inbound flights operated by Air India and Air India Express under Vande Bharat Mission in five days since the initiative commenced on May 7.

Air India, Alliance Air, Indian Air Force (IAF) and private airliners have operated 443 flights under the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s (MoCA) ‘Lifeline Udan’ programme. Out of the total, 265 flights were operated by Air India and Alliance Air. Cargo transported till date was around 821.07 tonnes, covering over 434,531 km.

BIAL has facilitated safe transit of nearly 3,000 foreign nationals with 22 flights flying passengers to 17 destinations across the globe from Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB or BLR Airport) during the lockdown.

Over 684.08 tonnes of essential and medical cargo was delivered till date across the country through Lifeline Udan flights during the nationwide lockdown.

Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Civil Aviation appreciated aviation professionals and stakeholders for their commendable efforts during COVID-19 crisis by making life saving medical and essential supplies available to citizens across the country under Lifeline Udan programme.

With the general elections around the corner, the country may expect frantic execution as well as awarding activity in March 2019 quarters.

In an interview with INFRASTRUCTURE TODAY, Hari Marar, the dynamic Managing Director and CEO, BIAL, tells that he is resolved to make Bengaluru Airport "the gateway to a new India" through expansion in airport infrastructure, application of disruptive technologies, and addition of new cargo handling amenities.