In the midst of a remarkable surge in passenger numbers, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is embarking on a visionary journey to introduce an array of direct international flights from Kochi, strategically targeting coveted destinations like Australia, Germany, and Malaysia—magnets for travelers seeking experiences in tourism, education, and employment.

This strategic move is not merely a response to demand but a result of CIAL's meticulous analysis of Original Destination Data (ODD), unveiling a discernible trend where passengers, in the absence of direct flights from Kochi, are diverting to other domestic airports. In a proactive bid to rectify this, CIAL is actively engaging in discussions with major airline operators across Europe, the UAE, and beyond, aiming to not only establish new services but to substantially amplify air connectivity from Kochi to these alluring foreign destinations.

Highlighting the missed opportunities, CIAL officials underscore instances where 261 passengers could have seamlessly traveled to Australia in 2018-19 if a direct flight option had been in place. This emphasizes the critical need to capture and dominate this untapped market. Negotiations with airlines, particularly those operating in the far-east and Europe, are laden with enticing incentives, including significant reductions in charges for ground handling and parking, making Kochi an irresistible proposition for prospective partners.

The airport's strategic initiatives are not only poised to elevate passenger numbers but also forecasted to substantially boost revenue. The numbers are already impressive, with Kochi airport on the brink of hitting the 10 million passenger mark within the first 11 months of the year. This trajectory is a testament to the airport's commitment to surpassing its own historical milestone of 10.01 million passengers achieved in the financial year 2018-19.

Notably, while financial challenges grip many airports, Kochi airport stands tall among its privately-owned counterparts by securing profitability. Bengaluru airport leads the league with an impressive profit of Rs 528.31 crore, closely followed by Kochi airport at Rs 267.17 crore, and Hyderabad at Rs 32.99 crore in the fiscal year 2022-23.

CIAL Unlisted Shares in Unlisted Market 

The CIAL unlisted shares have emerged as a prominent player in the unlisted market, gaining substantial attention for their remarkable performance. In the dynamic landscape of unlisted shares, the CIAL unlisted share price witnessed a notable ascent, scaling from Rs. 170 in March 2023 to an impressive Rs. 205 by December 2023, reflecting a commendable return of 20%.

This upward trajectory underscores the consistent and robust performance of CIAL unlisted shares, establishing them as a coveted investment option. Investors have been drawn to the resilience and growth exhibited by these shares in the unlisted market, contributing to their popularity.

The market's positive response to CIAL unlisted shares signals confidence in the company's underlying fundamentals and strategic direction. As the unlisted market continues to evolve, CIAL unlisted shares stand out as a testament to the potential for substantial returns in this segment.