Singapore to be first Southeast Asian destination with direct flights from Mangaluru International Airport

Mangaluru: Singapore is set to become the first Southeast Asian destination linked directly to Mangaluru International Airport (MIA). Member of Parliament Brijesh Chowta announced that Air India Express will operate two weekly direct flights between Mangaluru and Singapore’s Changi Airport starting early next year.

This expansion marks a significant milestone for MIA, which has so far catered only to international destinations in the Middle East and Saudi Arabia. Singapore’s inclusion in the route map highlights the growing importance of connecting Mangaluru to Southeast Asia, in line with India’s Act East policy aimed at strengthening ties with ASEAN nations.

Sharing the announcement on X, MP Brijesh Chowta wrote, “There have been multiple requests for better direct air connectivity between Mlore & Changi – highlighting which, I had also written to the Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation to enable the same. The new flights between Mlore & Changi bring good news & should encourage more providers to offer the same.”

He emphasized that the route would ease travel for business and strengthen ties between Mangaluru and Singapore, enhancing economic and cultural exchanges. He also encouraged expatriates in Singapore to contribute to their hometown’s growth by investing locally, stating, “On this occasion, I also nudge Mangaloreans based in Singapore to think of coming #BackToOoru & investing in Mangaluru.”

In addition to the Singapore flights, MIA will also see enhanced domestic connectivity with new flights to Pune and Delhi, marking a new phase of growth for the region’s aviation network, Chowta added.