Saturday, March 22, 2025 Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala in India is at the center of a growing aviation controversy as Emirates Airlines, which operates daily Boeing 777-300 flights between Dubai and the city, has been denied access to aerobridge facilities at the international airport. This dispute, reportedly stemming from Emirates’ refusal to share passenger data with Adani Airport Holdings Limited—the private operator managing the airport—has caused significant inconvenience to travelers, particularly premium-class passengers now forced to board via stairs and buses. The issue has sparked criticism from the Thiruvananthapuram Chamber of Commerce, which accuses the airport operator of retaliatory behavior that could threaten the city’s global connectivity and economic interests.
Emirates continues to operate daily services between Dubai (DXB) and Thiruvananthapuram, deploying its Boeing 777-300 aircraft on the route. However, a recent standoff has caused major disruptions, particularly for premium-class passengers who are now forced to board and disembark via external stairs before being bussed to the terminal—an inconvenience far from the usual seamless travel experience. At the heart of the issue is Emirates’ refusal to share passenger information with Adani Airport Holdings Limited, the private entity overseeing Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.
In light of this conflict, the Thiruvananthapuram Chamber of Commerce has stepped in, submitting a formal prot.
