Krishnadas steps down as CIAL MD

NEDUMBASSERY: With IAS Officer V J Kurien taking over the reign of Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) at Nedumbasssery on Friday, former Managing Director C G Krishnadas Nair, who was instrumental for boosting the pace of growth of the airport by introducing multiple projects, has stepped down after three years of service. Krishnadas Nair would be remembered long for developmental and visionary projects implemented at the airport. He introduced the concept of Airport City in CIAL. He was always concerned about the welfare of passengers and employees. He also coordinated with various agencies working under the roof of Kochi airport and all airlines operating from there. Under his command, several airlines launched their services from the airport. More than 10,000 passengers use CIAL daily and approximately 11,000 schedules are operated by various airlines at the airport monthly. It caters to about 33,000 visitors daily. The Kochi Airport has secured fourth place in handling the passengers in the country. The Airport museum set up under his command adds another feather to his cap. Nair used his influence to display IAF and HAL aircrafts in the museum. The ISRO has agreed to exhibit PSLV models in the museum, which is expected to open for the public within a couple of months. The trade fair attached to the airport is a farsighted project which is expected to attract major corporates and organisations from India and abroad. CIAL Golf and Country Club which has 1,250 members in its role launched near the airport under Nair’s initiative would earn good foreign exchange as many international championships could be hosted here.The aircraft repair, maintenance and overhauling (MRO) unit is nearing completion. The MRO, a Rs 100-crore project, will have six hangars to conduct maintenance of six aircrafts simultaneously.  Nair, who bagged several national and international awards and fellowships, is specialised in aerospace and has written many books. His three-year stint at CIAL would find a place in the history of the development of the airport.