Landing strip in Kerala raises new hopes

Dubai residents have hailed the introduction of a landing strip in a strategic location in Kerala.

The landing of a light aircraft in Aramulla village of Pathanamthitta district in Kerala last week raised hopes that it may one day morph into yet another international airport in the state known for its sizeable non-resident population.

Although Kerala has two international and domestic airports in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram and is in the process of setting up another one in Kozhikode, thousands of people travel long distances by road to reach home at odd hours.

Even a domestic airport at Aramulla ferrying air taxis could go a long way in relieving tired international passengers of an even more stressful journey on potholed roads. Feroz Khan, an engineer from Naranganam, part of the Pathanamthitta district, was thrilled to hear of the development.

"I think it's a good idea. We usually travel for three to three-and-a-half hours by road to reach home from either Kochi or Thiruvananthapuram. Also, most of the flights reach their destinations late at night or early morning and it is afternoon by the time we reach home. If there is an international airport in Aramulla, I would travel three times a year even if it was for a short break."

Biju John, a sales executive, comes from a town around 25 kms from the new landing strip. "I usually go to Kochi airport, which could take more than three hours. Even to have a domestic airport in this area is a big deal. It is difficult travelling with the family when you arrive at odd hours. I would be very interested in seeing how we could help develop the project."

Sajjan Mathew, a financial consultant and retired banker, said a large percentage of non-resident Keralites would be affected with the new landing strip in this area. "Aramulla has the large concentration of NRIs. Even a domestic airport will be very useful. I live just over a kilometre away from this place. I could even walk home in case there is a bandh (strike). Even to take a taxi from the existing airports is expensive. I am sure the air taxi concept will work, but it is doubtful if an international airport can come up."

Chacko Mathai, who works at Sharjah Airport, had heard of plans to build an airstrip by the Mt Sion Engineering College in the area.

"I live only 5 kms away from the new airstrip. Relatives who come to the airport to receive us have long waits when flights are delayed and they do not have the option of going home and returning to the airport. It would be great to cut down on time on the roads. Personally, I don't think there is enough space to build an international airport there."

Saji George, a businessman who travels to Kerala three to four times a year, says "an air taxi would help me a lot. I'm very happy that someone is taking the initiative to make an airport possible in this area. If anyone needs contributions, I'd be happy to take part".