AIE expects 85% load factor on Mangalore flights

Dubai, Oct 4 (UNI) Indian low-cost carrier Air India Express (AIE) is expecting an 85 per cent load factor on its three flights per week to Mangalore.

The service, which was launched yesterday from Dubai with 180-seating capacity, is the first directinternational commercial flight to the Karnataka town.

The airlines Marketing Manager for Dubai and the Northern Emirates Jaishree Ramachandran said a study of Mangalore's customer profile has revealed better acceptance to budget carriers.

Because of Mangalore's geographical location, the new service will also benefit people travelling to northern Kerala.

About two lakh Mangaloreans based in Dubai and the Northern Emirates are expected to benefit from AIE's direct flight service.

UNI XC KR ND1424