Flight operations recommence at Naini-Saini airport in Uttarakhand, enhancing connectivity between Kumaon and Garhwal regions

After a hiatus of over three years, the Naini-Saini airport in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, has witnessed the resumption of flight operations, signifying a significant milestone for the region. Leading this revival is the aviation firm Flybig, which has introduced a 19-seater aircraft connecting Dehradun and Pithoragarh.

The scheduled flights are set to operate three times a week, specifically on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays. This development promises to usher in a new era of connectivity for the Kumaon and Garhwal regions, providing more accessible travel options for residents and visitors alike.

Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, emphasizing the strategic importance of this resumption, highlighted its role in bringing the Kumaon and Garhwal regions closer together. The aviation services from Naini-Saini airport are poised to expand further, with plans to reach Pantnagar and eventually link with Hindon airport in Ghaziabad. This extension of air connectivity is expected to open up new possibilities, offering convenient options for travelers to reach various destinations.

Scindia noted a significant time-saving advantage with the resumption of air services. The travel time between Pithoragarh and Dehradun, previously an 11-hour road journey, is now reduced to a mere one hour by air. This reduction in travel time is anticipated to contribute significantly to the accessibility and convenience of transportation in the region.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, speaking at the event in Pithoragarh, elaborated on the positive impact enhanced air connectivity would bring to religious tourism in the Manaskhand region. He cited the example of the Prime Minister’s pilgrimage to Jolingkong to witness the Adi Kailash peak and Jageshwar Dham, noting the increased interest of tourists and a subsequent rise in visits to these lesser-known religious destinations.

Dhami expressed his intent to collaborate further with Flybig to increase the frequency of air services between Dehradun and Pithoragarh from three to five days per week. Additionally, he revealed plans to work towards establishing night landing facilities at Naini-Saini airport, further enhancing its operational capabilities.

The resumption of flight operations at Naini-Saini airport signifies not only a renewed era of air travel for Pithoragarh but also holds the promise of boosting tourism, fostering economic development, and strengthening connectivity across Uttarakhand’s diverse landscapes. The collaborative efforts of the government and aviation entities are expected to bring a positive impact to the region.

This initiative aligns with the broader vision of enhancing regional connectivity, making remote and less-accessible areas more reachable. As air travel becomes more streamlined and convenient, it is likely to stimulate economic activities, promote tourism, and improve overall accessibility and connectivity for the benefit of the local population and tourists visiting Uttarakhand. The concerted efforts in resuming flight operations underscore a commitment to regional development and a forward-looking approach to transportation infrastructure.