Daily Air Services to Link Delhi, Shimla, and Dharamshala from Late April
In a significant move to enhance regional connectivity and tourism, daily scheduled flights on the Delhi–Shimla and Shimla–Dharamshala routes are set to commence operations in the last week of April. The services will run seven days a week under a newly signed agreement between the Himachal Pradesh government and Alliance Air Ltd.
MoU Signed to Boost Tourism and Accessibility
Sharing details on Monday, Vivek Bhatia, Director of Tourism and Civil Aviation, announced that the state government has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Alliance Air Ltd to operate these flights. This initiative is designed to boost tourism and improve accessibility by establishing direct air links between the national capital, Shimla, and Dharamshala.
The flights will be operated using a 48-seater ATR 42-600 aircraft, ensuring reliable and efficient service for passengers. Both routes will benefit from 100% viability gap funding (VGF), with the Himachal government covering the full cost as a grant-in-aid to the airline. The annual VGF outlay is estimated at Rs 32.6 crore, subject to actual billing, and the MoU will remain valid for 12 months from the start of operations.
Expected Impact on Tourism and Connectivity
Authorities anticipate that this move will significantly boost tourism in the region by offering faster and more convenient travel options. It is also expected to strengthen intra-state connectivity between key destinations such as Shimla and Dharamshala, making it easier for tourists and residents to travel within Himachal Pradesh.
The introduction of these daily flights marks a pivotal step in enhancing the state's infrastructure and promoting economic growth through improved air travel networks.
