The Bangalore International Airport Ltd. (BIAL), which runs Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), is joining hands with the Karnataka Tourism Department to make Karnataka a top travel spot. Girish Nair, BIAL's chief operating officer, said, "Karnataka is a strong destination, and the airport plays a very important role in promoting it." BIAL and the tourism department are working together to attract more airlines and tour operators. "We want to conduct joint presentations to airlines to improve international connectivity," Mr. Nair told The Hindu. The two will also represent Karnataka in international travel fairs. "Airports are an integral part of tourism. We’re talking to them (tourism department) in terms of how we can jointly represent the State in world travel exhibitions and so on," he added. BIAL has also teamed up with the State government to promote Karnataka’s rich culture through the Kala Loka Pavilion inside Terminal-2's Domestic Bay. Spanning 132 sq. meters, the pavilion presents Karnataka's heritage products like Mysore Silk Sarees, Bidriware, Channapatna Toys, and GI-tagged coffees. It features items from local corporations such as Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation and Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation. BIAL says visitors can enjoy both shopping and fresh coffee at the exclusive Coffee Bay inside the pavilion. Another larger outlet of 140 sq. meters will soon open in the international departure area of Terminal-2. Karnataka State Industrial & Infrastructure Development Corporation holds a 13% share in BIAL, further linking the airport to state interests.