Air India Express, the low-cost subsidiary of the Air India Group, is widely recognized as Kerala’s unofficial home airline. With its headquarters in Kochi, the carrier has long served as a crucial link between Kerala and Gulf nations, catering to the travel needs of the state’s extensive expatriate population. Since its inception in 2005, Air India Express has grown into a vital part of Kerala’s aviation landscape, establishing Kochi as its primary base and building secondary hubs in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode.

By 2015, despite the challenges faced by its parent company, Air India Express remained steadfast in providing dependable and affordable international air connectivity. For countless Keralites working abroad, the airline represented more than just a travel option — it was a symbol of opportunity, connection, and homecoming. Its presence continues to embody the aspirations of a global Malayali community and the enduring emotional ties to their homeland.