In a significant blow to air connectivity in North Karnataka, Star Air has reportedly discontinued its direct flight service linking Belagavi (IXG) with Mumbai (BOM). The suspension, effective from December 25, has left the region temporarily severed from a direct air link to India's primary commercial and transit hub.
A Critical Connectivity Gap
Star Air was the sole operator providing a non-stop service on the Belagavi–Mumbai sector. Its sudden withdrawal has disrupted travel plans for a large number of business commuters, healthcare travellers, students, and frequent flyers who rely on this route. The loss of direct connectivity is viewed as a major setback for Belagavi, given Mumbai's unparalleled importance for trade, specialized healthcare, higher education, and seamless onward connections to both domestic and international destinations.
Speaking to TOI, Belagavi Airport director S Thyagarajan confirmed the development, noting that while Star Air's booking portal shows the halt from December 25, the airport has not received any official communication from the airline. "We have asked for clarifications from the airline," an official stated. Presently, Star Air continues to operate flights from Belagavi to Hyderabad, Jaipur, and an additional service to Bengaluru.
Uncertainty Over IndiGo's Entry and Resumption of Delhi Flights
While there is a glimmer of hope with IndiGo announcing plans to launch services on the Belagavi-Mumbai route, the commencement date of its operations remains uncertain. This ambiguity offers little immediate relief to stranded passengers.
In a related but resolved incident, IndiGo resumed its direct flight service between Belagavi and Delhi after a six-day disruption from December 8 to 13. This halt was part of a wider operational issue affecting the airline nationwide and caused considerable inconvenience. During that period, with no direct link to the national capital, passengers were forced to take circuitous routes via Hubballi or Goa, or opt for rail and road travel. Airport authorities have confirmed that the Belagavi-Delhi flight operations have now returned to normal.
Authorities Hope for Swift Resolution
Airport officials remain optimistic that the void on the Mumbai route will not persist for long. "Many airlines are focusing on the Belagavi-Mumbai route, and we hope the disruption will not continue for an extended period," the official added. The situation underscores the vulnerability of regional air connectivity when dependent on a single carrier for a critical route, highlighting the need for multiple operators to ensure stability and convenience for travellers.
