Thursday, June 6, 2024 Air India Express has announced the commencement of a weekly flight from Tiruchy International Airport to Jeddah, starting June 12. This service, which includes a stopover in Mangaluru, marks a significant enhancement in connectivity, offering new opportunities for travelers and boosting the airline industry. The new route adds to Tiruchy’s network of international destinations, bringing the total to ten.
Previously, Saudi Arabian Airlines operated a similar route from Tiruchy to Jeddah, which was discontinued during the Covid-19 pandemic. The reinstatement of this service by Air India Express is seen as a positive development. According to the schedule, the Air India Express flight is set to depart from Tiruchy at 12:55 PM and arrive in Jeddah at 6:25 PM.
The return flight from Jeddah will leave at 7:25 PM, reaching Tiruchy at 5:35 AM. This service is scheduled for every Wednesday. J Jahir Hussain, Chairman of the Travel Agents Federation of India, Tamil Nadu chapter, expressed that the new flight would significantly benefit Tamils working in Jeddah, many of whom hail from central Tamil Nadu.
He highlighted that the convenience of this service would particularly aid those visiting the holy cities of Mecca and Medina throughout the year, as Jeddah serves as a crucial hub for Haj and Umrah pilgrims. Immigration and luggage checks will be handled at Tiruchy airport, further easing the travel process. Abdul Rahman, Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Wakf Board a.
