Mangalore:  M R Vasudev, Director of the Mangalore Airport said that the Mangalore Airport has reached to the International Level and this got a lot of satisfaction in the work.

He was speaking at the ‘Meet the Press’ held at Press Club on October 11, Thursday. He said that when he joined Airport Authority in 2002, there was only Rs 80 lakhs profit, but previous year it made the profit of Rs 9.5 crore and in 2012-2013 it has reached the profit of Rs 12.5 crore, he said.

He also said that after 2002, the flights from foreign started to enter Mangalore Airport. From 1989 to 2003, people did not want to establish a Airport in Mangalore, but after I joined, I convinced them to agree for this and they supported in the process and thanks to all, he said.

Speaking about new run way, he said that expansion of 1 kilometer run way is needed, but not in urgent since the amount of Rs 1200 crore is required. When the land is gained in future this can be done and this is left to people.

In 2013-2014 more developments will take place, but not so soon and must go at step by step depending upon the fights lands at Mangalore Airport. The fights from America and Europe is not needed here since there are hardly any number of people moving there, but can plan for future.

In 2002, around 2.77 lakhs people used to board the plane from Mangalore Airport, but in 2012, more than 9.30 lakhs people board, he said.

Speaking on the ATC, he said that the tower will complete in May. The tower will be constructed at the height of 24 ft, which has the capacity to control the flights from 360 degree view.

Later he was felicitated with shawl, garland, fruit bowl and memento.

DKWJU president P B Harish Rai welcomed the guest and gathering.