TV Ibrahim, MLA condot, raised accusations of a plot that discouraged passengers from using the International Airport in Calicut, Karipur. He argued that a significant decrease in the number of HAJ pilgrims who decided to Airport Karipur due to considerable differences in food is proof of alleged conspiracy.
Despite the next fare of 32 000 GBP per ticket, 10,515 pilgrims passed at the airport in 2024. However, the number dropped to 5,857 in 2025, with a fare being around 40,000 ₹, higher than in Kochi and Kannura. For the upcoming season Haj the number of pilgrims who decided for Calicut airport fell drastically to only 632.
“This is part of a larger conspiracy. The current trend suggests that the authorities deliberately eliminate Calicut Airport as a point of playing Haj. They seem to be successful by next year,” Mr. Ibrahim said.
According to Mr. Ibrahim, the central and state governments and the State Committee of Haj Vilni are negligent, which led to the ongoing discrimination of the airport.
The Malappuram district has the largest number of pilgrims who go to Makkah of Kerala. “In the last two years, Calicut Airport has chosen despite the high tariffs. In the coming season they will give up the airport due to exaggerated rates,” he said.
The MLA said that the state government and the state committee did not make effective interventions to end the differences in fees. “They are trying to destroy the airport and help the growth of Kannur and Kochi airports,” he said.
Mr. Ibrahim rejected the claim that Calicut airport was charged higher prices due to the use of smaller flights. “The argument is unfounded. Currently, standard flight rates to Saudi Arabia from Kozhikode, Kochi and Kannur are almost identical. So, why should they have different rates?” he asked.
“In addition, private groups of Haj and Umrah use Calicut airport more than others. What is the reason for this discriminatory treatment?” he asked.
Published – August 19, 2025 20:12
