In a bid to cater to the needs of pet owners traveling abroad, Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) has introduced a pioneering service allowing the exportation of pets through its premises.

The inaugural flight featured 'Luka', an adorable Lhasa Apso puppy, bound for Dubai via Doha, accompanied by Rajesh Susheelan and Kavitha Rajesh, residents of Attingal in Thiruvananthapuram. Handled by Qatar Airways, Luka's journey signifies a milestone for CIAL as it becomes the sole airport in Kerala authorized to export pets abroad.

To support this service, CIAL has set up a 24-hour air-conditioned pet station, a dedicated cargo section, access to veterinary services, customs clearance facilities, and a support center for pet owners.

Previously limited to domestic travel, CIAL now enables pets to be transported as cargo to various international destinations in specially designed cages. Plans are also underway to secure authorization for direct pet imports, with the establishment of an 'Animal Quarantine' center in progress.

In addition to pet services, CIAL has expanded its capabilities to include the import and export of fruits, plants, drugs, and cosmetics. A 'Plant Quarantine' center is already operational near the cargo section, facilitating the movement of plant-based products.

Spearheading these initiatives, S. Suhas IAS, Managing Director of CIAL, emphasized the airport's commitment to providing comprehensive services to passengers. Automation of passenger touchpoints, the introduction of value-added facilities, and plans for sophisticated security measures, such as full-body scanners, are part of the airport's ongoing enhancements.

Furthermore, CIAL's authorization from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to import drugs and cosmetics in bulk quantities signifies a significant departure from previous restrictions, offering greater accessibility to these products for stockists and consumers alike.