Halwara Airport Set to Begin Commercial Operations in May
After a decade of eager anticipation, the newly inaugurated Halwara Airport is poised to commence commercial flight operations this May, marking a transformative milestone for Punjab's industrial heartland. Union Minister of State for Railways, Ravneet Singh Bittu, who hails from this region, announced on Sunday that ticket bookings will open in April, with the inaugural flights scheduled between May 10 and 15.
Enhanced Connectivity for Economic Growth
The service will feature two daily flights connecting Ludhiana to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, utilizing 160-seater A320 aircraft. "This is a major leap in connectivity for the region," Bittu emphasized, highlighting that the morning and afternoon flight slots are designed to significantly bolster trade and stimulate economic growth. The Airport Authority of India (AAI) has already allocated office space and booking counters to private carriers, though officials are currently finalizing the deployment of approximately 20 ground and office staff.
Operational Details and Local Enthusiasm
According to sources within the AAI, the summer schedule issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) anticipates a 9 AM arrival from Delhi, followed by a second afternoon flight landing at 3 PM. This development has been met with widespread enthusiasm from the local business community. Upkar Singh Ahuja, president of the Chamber of Industrial and Commercial Undertakings (CICU), stated that the air link is essential for international buyers and the NRI diaspora, facilitating easier access and boosting commercial activities.
A Long-Awaited Dream Realized
The airport was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 1, culminating what residents describe as a "long-cherished dream" for the manufacturing hub. This initiative not only ends years of waiting but also positions Ludhiana as a more accessible destination for both domestic and international travelers, promising to enhance the region's industrial and economic landscape.
