In a bid to address the escalating airfare issue faced by Keralites planning to return home for the upcoming Onam festival, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has written a letter to Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, requesting the authorization of chartered flights from Gulf countries to Kerala. This approach intends to reduce the financial strain on Non-Resident Keralites living in the Middle East, allowing them to engage in the lively Onam festivities.
The excessive ticket charges during the period from 15th August 2023 to 15th September 2023 have pushed many Keralites to reevaluate their holiday plans. Non-Resident Keralites and Kerala Expats living in both India and the Middle East have voiced their worries over the effect of these elevated costs on their ability to celebrate Onam with their loved ones.
Understanding the importance of Onam for Keralites globally, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has appealed to Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia for his quick involvement. The proposal is based on enabling chartered flights exclusively catering to Non-Resident Keralites in the UAE, operating under the limits provided by the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) for a period of 30 days under International Travel Permits (ITP).
The suggested provision of chartered aircraft will bring a much-needed break to the Keralite diaspora, allowing them to join in the cultural spectacle of Onam. This effort corresponds with the government’s objective to preserve the cultural history of Kerala and developing a feeling of oneness among Keralites, regardless of geographical limits.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s petition to Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia underscores the urgent need to solve the excessive airfare problem experienced by Non-Resident Keralites during the Onam festival. By enabling chartered flights from Gulf nations to Kerala, the government can enable a pleasant return for the Keralite diaspora and guarantee that the spirit of Onam stays pristine. It is anticipated that the government would immediately act on this request, enabling Keralites to celebrate Onam with their family and loved ones, despite the financial challenges caused by overpriced airfares.