Prayagraj's air connectivity is set to receive a significant upgrade with the planned launch of a new flight service connecting the city to Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad. The service is expected to commence operations from January, providing a crucial link for travelers.
Final Preparations for Magh Mela Connectivity
The announcement was made during a meeting of the Airport Advisory Committee held in Civil Lines on Tuesday. Prayagraj Airport Director Rajesh Chawla informed the committee that preparations for starting the Prayagraj–Hindon flight are in their final stages, with a focus on the upcoming Magh Mela period. The move aims to facilitate easier travel for pilgrims and visitors during the significant religious gathering.
Night Landing: The Central Hurdle for Expansion
A major point of discussion was the constraint posed by the lack of night landing facilities. Representatives from leading carriers Akasa Air, IndiGo, and Alliance Air have shown a positive intent. They have agreed to increase the number of flights from Prayagraj, but this expansion is contingent upon the airport becoming operational for night landings.
Currently, the lack of clearance from the Indian Air Force (IAF) for night operations is the primary obstacle. Squadron Leader Prasad Patwardhan, representing the IAF at the meeting, presented the force's perspective on the matter. It was noted that night landing facilities were temporarily functional during the Maha Kumbh but were discontinued afterward.
Committee Pushes for Action and Resumption of Services
The meeting, chaired by Airport Advisory Committee chairman and Phulpur MP Praveen Patel, saw active participation. MP Patel directed the aviation companies to submit detailed proposals for the new flight services to the airport director. This step is crucial to escalate the matter at the ministry level for necessary approvals and support.
Participants also unanimously demanded the resumption of discontinued flight services to and from Prayagraj, highlighting the need for consistent and enhanced air links to support the region's growth and tourism.
The high-level meeting saw attendance from key stakeholders, including:
- Airport COO Manish Yadav
- Officials from Akasa Air and Alliance Air
- Airport authorities Mukesh Upadhyay and Shyam Kartik
- Representatives from the police, Prayagraj Development Authority, municipal corporation, district administration, and Public Works Department (PWD).
The collective push from the committee, airlines, and local authorities underscores a strong commitment to transforming Prayagraj into a more accessible aviation hub, pending the resolution of infrastructural and regulatory challenges.
