On March 26, IndiGo Airlines launched a new route between Delhi and Dharamshala, adding to its domestic network and bringing the total number of routes to 78. The inaugural flight was flagged off by Union Ministers Anurag Thakur and Jyotiraditya Scindia, along with Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation VK Singh.
During the launch event, Thakur emphasized the need for a larger airport, stating that passengers traveling to Himachal from across India must first travel to Delhi and then take connecting flights to the state. He argued that a larger airport would provide direct, seamless connectivity to passengers.
Kishan Kapoor, MP from Kangra, expressed his gratitude for the new flight, calling it a major contribution to air connectivity for the people of the state. He also requested that the Ministry of Civil Aviation consider expanding the number of aircraft flying to Dharamshala.
Scindia acknowledged Kapoor’s request and said that his ministry is already working on a 2-phase plan to address the issue. The first phase involves lengthening the current runway to 1900 meters to enable turboprop aircraft to land without load penalties. The second phase involves further lengthening the runway to 3110 meters to accommodate Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft.
In addition to the new route, the Centre approved the domestic summer schedule for 2023, which includes a 4.4% increase in flights over the winter schedule. IndiGo had the highest number of approved flights under the schedule.
Scindia also highlighted other achievements in the state, including the completed restoration of the runway at Shimla airport and the provision of site clearance for a Greenfield airport at Mandi. The Minister reiterated his ministry’s commitment to the development of civil aviation infrastructure in the state.
The state of Himachal has been provided 44 routes under UDAN, of which 22 are already operational. Scindia said that connectivity has increased by 175% over the past nine years, from 40 aircraft per week in 2013-14 to 110 aircraft per week. In Dharamshala specifically, the number of air traffic movements has increased by 110% in the past nine years, from 28 per week in 2013-14 to 50 movements today.
Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, stated that the new route will provide direct connectivity to Himachal Pradesh, allowing tourists to explore local markets, temples, monasteries, museums, churches, and picturesque waterfalls and mountains. He added that the new route aims to bolster passenger traffic, as there has been strong demand for connectivity to Himachal Pradesh.
In summary, the new route between Delhi and Dharamshala will improve air connectivity to Himachal Pradesh, benefiting both tourists and locals. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is working to expand the number of aircraft flying to Dharamshala, and the state has seen a significant increase in connectivity and air traffic movements over the past nine years.
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