Air India launches direct flight to Surat from Kolkata

Kolkata: Air India, on Wednesday, launched a direct flight connecting Kolkata with Surat from the NSCBI Airport, Kolkata. The non-stop airlink to Surat will boost domestic air traffic and meet a long-standing demand for adequate airlink between Bengal and Gujarat.

AI 674, operated by a 122-seater A319, took off with 114 passengers on Wednesday at the 1210 hrs to reach Surat at 1430 hrs. Earlier, AI423 had arrived in Kolkata at 1110 hrs, leaving Surat at 0850 hrs.

A ceremonial lamp was lit by the Air India Regional Director East, Mr B C Biswas along with GM Commercial East Mr S Misra. Passengers were invited to cut a cake and participate in the small event to mark the occasion.