Abu Dhabi Airports has welcomed GoAir’s launch of four new flights between Kannur International Airport (CNN) and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), connecting the two cities with flights operating every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

GoAir’s inaugural flight from Kannur to Abu Dhabi was received with much fanfare today, as the Indian subcontinent remains one of the most popular destinations for travelers departing from AUH. In addition, Kannur itself is popular leisure and business destination within the state of Kerala.

Bryan Thompson, CEO Abu Dhabi Airports commented: “India is a key travel market for Abu Dhabi International Airport, and we are always eager to strengthen our connectivity to the Indian Subcontinent, enhancing further our services extended to our dear customers.”

Maarten De Groof, Chief Commercial Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “As one of our most promising new partners, we are pleased to welcome GoAir’s flights to Abu Dhabi. India has always been one of our largest and most important areas of operations, and we look forward to ensuring GoAir’s guests enjoy a comfortable and efficient experience throughout Abu Dhabi International Airport where we continue to deploy world-class smart travel solutions, attractive retail offerings, and relaxing lounge spaces.”

“This additional service to Abu Dhabi reflects the Capital’s status as a key destination and transit hub, and forms a part of our strategy to attract new airlines to our network,” added De Groof.

Mr. Jeh Wadia, Managing Director, GoAir, said: “This is a historic moment for GoAir as we enter the Middle East region with our maiden flight taking off from Kannur to Abu Dhabi, thereby strengthening the India – UAE relationship. GoAir is world’s fastest growing airline and Abu Dhabi is our 4th international destination after Phuket, Male and Muscat, and 28th destination sequentially speaking. GoAir is delighted to partner with Abu Dhabi Airports. It is heartening to note that both GoAir and Abu Dhabi Airports were established in 2006 and are celebrating 13th anniversaries this year. I welcome aboard passengers from Kannur and Abu Dhabi on four direct flight services per week at an attractive all-inclusive one way fare starting from AED 435. Fly smart, fly GoAir.”

“At GoAir we would like to take this opportunity to thank the Government of UAE and the Rulers as well as General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of UAE for making this happen.  Our special gratitude to our partners Safar Emirates Travel LLC Abu Dhabi and Al Ain; Al Naboodha Travel LLC Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman and Arabian Travel Services LLC Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah. Last but not the least, GoAir thanks Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Ground and Maintenance services,” added Mr. Wadia.

GoAir is committed to providing travelers value for their money through the highest standards of customer service delivery and affordable air fares. With its fleet of 49 Airbus A320 and Airbus A320neo aircraft, the airline offers more than 230 daily flights and approximately 1,600 weekly flights across 28 destinations – 24 domestic and 4 international.

The inaugural GoAir flight from Kannur touched down on Saturday March 2 at 00.40 local time (LT).