MIA gives toppers hands-on aviation experience

Mangaluru: The Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) hosted Dakshina Kannada district and state toppers from SSLC and II PUC for an experiential airport visit on Thursday, offering students a behind-the-scenes look at aviation operations as part of the airport’s 75-year civil aviation milestone celebrations.

The initiative follows a similar visit organised for II PUC toppers on May 7, and is among a series of programmes marking 75 years since the first aircraft carrying then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru landed at the then Bajpe aerodrome on Dec 25, 1951. The airport said the platinum jubilee commemorations will continue through the year, with a finale planned in Dec.

During the visit, students were taken through key passenger journey touchpoints, security procedures, airline and terminal functions, and airside operations, with an overview of the Central Industrial Security Force’s role in airport safety and security. Airport officials also highlighted how terminal operations are designed to improve passenger comfort, efficiency and satisfaction.

Students interacted with operational units including Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting and air traffic control, and were briefed on the airport’s recently acquired crash fire tenders and rapid intervention vehicle. They also observed aircraft landings, a helicopter take-off and a military aircraft’s touch-and-go operation.

Senior airport leadership later discussed emerging trends in the aviation sector, evolving passenger expectations and related career opportunities, with the airport reiterating its commitment to community engagement and nurturing future talent.