Mangaluru International Airport marks 77th Republic Day with patriotic celebrations and operational milestones
• R-Day celebrations underscore operational excellence and stakeholder collaboration at Mangaluru International Airport
• CISF K9 squad delivers high-impact security demonstration showcasing preparedness and discipline
• Airport records highest single-day passenger traffic since commencement of operations on January 10, 2026
Mangaluru, Jan 27, 2026: Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) marked the 77th Republic Day with a ceremonial programme highlighting operational performance, safety preparedness and coordination among airport stakeholders.
The event began with a tribute to the nation’s martyrs, followed by the unfurling of the national flag and a guard of honour. The ceremony was led by Binu Varghese, Chief Airport Officer (CAO), MIA, in the presence of airport stakeholders, security agencies and operational teams.
Addressing the gathering, Mr Varghese said MIA was on track to handle its highest-ever passenger traffic by the end of the current financial year, surpassing the 2.32 million passengers recorded in FY 2024–25. He also credited stakeholders for enabling the airport to handle 9,199 passengers on January 10, 2026, the highest single-day passenger throughput since the airport began operations.
A key highlight was a live demonstration by the CISF Airport Security Group’s K9 unit. Belgian Malinois dogs Max and Ranger demonstrated search and response drills, while Ranger carried out a ‘medical evacuation’ exercise involving Goldie, a Golden Retriever. Rio, a Labrador, showcased obstacle navigation, obedience routines and coordinated movement exercises, underscoring the airport’s security preparedness.
The programme saw participation from teams representing immigration, customs, airlines, concessionaires, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), private security agencies and ground-handling partners. Cultural performances by employees of MIA and IndiGo, and children of CISF personnel, were also held.
Mr Varghese felicitated CISF personnel and private security staff for exemplary performance and their role in maintaining safety and service standards.
MIA is operated by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), which manages and develops airports at Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Jaipur, Guwahati, Thiruvananthapuram, Mumbai and the recently operational Navi Mumbai International Airport.
As part of AAHL’s aviation portfolio, MIA continues to focus on safe, efficient and passenger-centric operations while supporting regional connectivity and economic development.
