In a major relief for NRIs from Coastal Karnataka, Air India Express has officially announced the return of its direct Mangalore-Muscat-Mangalore flight service.
According to the airline’s official circular issued on June 22, 2026, the service will resume on July 2, 2026. The announcement restores a crucial air link between Mangalore and Oman after months of disruption.
Additionally, Air India Express will restart its Kozhikode-Salalah-Kozhikode route on the same day.
The airline has also released its revised Oman schedule. It includes 39 weekly flights between India and Oman destinations from July 1 to July 31, 2026.
Mangalore-Muscat Flight Schedule
Passengers travelling between Mangalore (IXE) and Muscat (MCT) can now book direct flights on the following days.
Mangalore to Muscat – Flight IX 891
- Days: Monday and Thursday
- Departure: 11:25 PM
- Arrival: 1:15 AM (next day)
Muscat to Mangalore – Flight IX 892
- Day: Tuesday
- Departure: 2:15 AM
- Arrival: 6:50 AM
Muscat to Mangalore – Flight IX 782
- Day: Friday
- Departure: 2:55 AM
- Arrival: 7:45 AM
Passengers who need booking assistance or ticket modifications can contact the Air India Express support team or visit the airline’s official website.
Direct Flights Bring Huge Relief to NRIs
The announcement has brought happiness to thousands of NRIs living in Oman. For several months, travellers had to rely on costly connecting flights and long layovers to reach Mangalore.
As a result, many families faced higher travel expenses and longer journey times.
Rahul Shetty, a Muscat-based professional from Mangalore, welcomed the decision.
“Direct connectivity is a lifeline for us. Travelling with young children or elderly parents through connecting airports was a logistical nightmare. Now we can fly directly to Mangalore in just a few hours, saving both time and money.”
Community Welcomes the Return
Meanwhile, travel groups and community forums have been filled with positive reactions since the announcement.
Many passengers said the timing is perfect because July is an important month for family visits, business trips, and emergency travel.
Catherine D’Souza, a healthcare professional in Muscat, shared her excitement.
“The return of these direct flights restores the comfort of seamless travel. It feels great to know that our voices were heard, and we can finally plan our trips home without worrying about missed connections or delayed baggage.”
A Welcome Boost for Travel Between Oman and Coastal Karnataka
The return of the direct Mangalore-Muscat service is expected to benefit thousands of expatriates from Mangalore, Udupi, and nearby districts.
Furthermore, the service will reduce travel time, lower costs, and provide a more comfortable journey for families.
With direct connectivity restored from July 2, 2026, passengers can once again enjoy a faster and more convenient travel experience between Mangalore and Muscat.
