Himachal Pradesh Government Announces Daily Flight Services to Boost Tourism and Connectivity
In a significant move aimed at enhancing air connectivity and promoting high-end tourism, the Himachal Pradesh government has officially announced the operationalisation of regular flights on the Delhi–Shimla and Shimla–Dharamshala routes. These flights will operate seven days a week, with the state providing substantial financial support to ensure their sustained operation.
Financial Support and Strategic Importance
The government has committed an annual financial support of Rs 31 crore to facilitate these daily flight services. According to an official statement, this initiative underscores tourism as a top priority for the state, with multiple efforts being launched to improve visitor facilities and overall travel experiences.
The introduction of these flights is expected to bring numerous benefits, including a reduction in travel time, improved accessibility, and smoother movement for tourists, business travellers, and local residents. Enhanced air connectivity will also play a crucial role in administrative functions, enable faster medical evacuations, and ensure a timely response during emergencies or natural disasters.
Current and Future Aviation Infrastructure
Himachal Pradesh currently boasts three operational airports, alongside several helipads and heliports that are under construction at district headquarters and major tourist destinations. Recently, helicopter services were launched from Sanjauli in Shimla to Chandigarh and Reckong Peo in Kinnaur, offering tourists a unique opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region from above.
Looking ahead, additional routes have been proposed to further expand air travel options. These include Sanjauli–Rampur–Reckong Peo and Sanjauli–Manali, which have been submitted to the director general of civil aviation and are currently awaiting approval. This expansion aims to create a more comprehensive and efficient aviation network across the state.
Impact on Tourism and Local Economy
The regular flight services are poised to significantly boost tourism by making Himachal Pradesh more accessible to domestic and international visitors. By reducing reliance on road travel, which can be time-consuming and affected by weather conditions, these flights will provide a reliable alternative that enhances the overall travel experience.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to position Himachal as a premier tourist destination, leveraging its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The improved connectivity is expected to attract more high-end tourists, thereby stimulating the local economy and creating new opportunities for businesses in the hospitality and service sectors.
