Our regular feature, brought to you in association with Duty Free Global from Ireland, celebrates memorable scenes, moments, launches and campaigns related to the global aviation and travel retail sphere.
INDIA. Our images today – and what joyous images they are – show how Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru has been celebrating its 18th birthday in typically creative style, writes Martin Moodie.
On 24 May 2008, Bangalore International Airport opened for business. It was renamed in December 2013 to honour city founder, Nadaprabhu Kempegowda, who ruled most parts of Karnataka during the sixteenth century under the Vijayanagar Empire.
Kempegowda had the vision of building a large futuristic city and is widely considered the founder of Bengaluru.
“18 years of journeys. Of reunions, goodbyes, homecomings and new beginnings,” wrote airport operator Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) on LinkedIn. “For every dream that took flight and every moment that found its way back home – we’re grateful to have been a part of your story.
“To our colleagues, partners, stakeholders and the city of Bengaluru, thank you for shaping this journey with us. Feels good to be 18.”
Coming from someone who visited the location even before this beautiful baby was born (see picture below), I understand and appreciate that feelgood sentiment very well.
The special moments did not end there. BIAL combined this week with India Post to unveil a Permanent Pictorial Cancellation (a postmark which highlights a place of particular interest) along with a special cover and commemorative picture postcards, marking the airport’s 18th birthday.
Featuring Nadaprabhu Kempegowda alongside Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru’s magnificent Terminal 2, the design reflects Bengaluru’s journey from a city rooted in heritage to a globally connected hub for innovation, enterprise and culture, BIAL said.
No doubt, BIAL CEO & Managing Director Hari Marar, who has done so much to shape this wondrous airport down the years, will put his personal stamp on the postcard as well. ✈
