Aerial view of Terminal-2 of Bengal Kempegowda International Airport. | Photo credit: File photo
Bangalore International Airport Ltd. (BIAL), the operator of the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), is partnering with the Karnataka Tourism Department to position Karnataka as a strong destination.
Girish Nair, Chief Operating Officer, BIAL said that Karnataka is a strong destination and the airport plays a very important role in promoting it.
“We are working with the tourism department to see how we can collaborate and promote Karnataka as a strong tourism destination. We are also talking to airlines and reaching out to tour operators along with the tourism department. We want to hold joint presentations for airlines to improve international connectivity,” Mr. Nair told The Hindu.
He added that BIAL along with the department will also jointly represent the state at world travel exhibitions and other events.
“Airports are an integral part of tourism. We are talking to them (tourism department) about how we can jointly represent the state at world travel exhibitions and so on,” he added.
Mr. Nair said that BIAL has already collaborated with the State Government to promote the rich handicraft, culture and heritage of Karnataka. “We already have the Kala Loka pavilion which has been opened in the domestic bay of Terminal 2 to promote the craftsmanship, culture and heritage of Karnataka,” Mr. Nair said.
According to BIAL, the Kala Loka Pavilion is spread over 132 square meters and showcases Karnataka Geographical Indication (GI) and heritage products from Karnataka, curatorial institutions like Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation, Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Ltd., Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation, Drgaje Handlovan, Karnataka, Karnataka Industries Development Corporation and specialty coffees marked by GI Coffee Board.
“Visitors can explore an eclectic collection that ranges from Mysore Silk Sarees, Ilkal Sarees, Bidriware, Mysore Rosewood Inlay, Channapatna Toys and Sandalwood artefacts to fine leather goods and an exclusive Coffee Bay serving freshly brewed varieties of Karnataka’s world-renowned GI certified coffees,” BIAL said.
Another store is expected to open in the international departure area of Terminal 2 with an area of 140 square meters.
The state government, through the Karnataka State Industrial & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited, owns 13% stake in BIAL.
Published – 15 Feb 2026 20:36 IST