In a significant boost to air connectivity, Uttar Pradesh is set to witness the opening of five new airports in Azamgarh, Aligarh, Moradabad, Chitrakoot, and Shravasti, bringing the total number of airports in the state to 19. Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced this development on Thursday while inaugurating a direct flight from Ayodhya to Ahmedabad.
The inauguration ceremony took place virtually, with Scindia flagging off the flight from Ayodhya to Ahmedabad from the national capital. This announcement comes shortly after the inauguration of the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport in Ayodhya on December 30 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
IndiGo, the airline spearheading the new flight services, initiated flights between Ayodhya and Delhi from January 11. The carrier is set to operate flights between Ayodhya and Ahmedabad three times a week, with Mumbai-Ayodhya services commencing from January 15.
Scindia expressed that the addition of five new airports in Uttar Pradesh within a month reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing air connectivity. These airports are strategically located in Azamgarh, Aligarh, Moradabad, Chitrakoot, and Shravasti, contributing to the state’s overall aviation infrastructure.
The Union minister further outlined plans for the expansion of the Ayodhya airport, including runway extensions to accommodate larger aircraft and facilitate international flights. The Ayodhya airport, covering an area of 6,500 square meters with a peak-hour passenger handling capacity of 600, is poised for further development.
As part of the second phase of expansion, the airport’s capacity is slated to increase to 3,000 passengers. Simultaneously, the runway, currently measuring 2,200 meters, will undergo an extension to 3,700 meters, enabling the operation of larger aircraft and international flights.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who participated in the virtual event, highlighted the crucial role of improved air services in fostering tourism and business activities. Adityanath mentioned that around 100 chartered flights are expected at the Ayodhya airport for the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple on January 22.
Underscoring the state’s commitment to enhancing connectivity, the chief minister emphasized that Ayodhya has become a sought-after destination. The government has worked on improving connectivity by road, rail, and air, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for comprehensive development.
Adityanath applauded the state government’s allocation of 821 acres of land for the Ayodhya airport and the Civil Aviation Ministry’s efforts in developing a world-class facility within the stipulated timeframe. He reiterated the government’s commitment to further expand the airport’s capabilities, making it a key aviation hub in the region.
Scindia also highlighted the significant growth in air connectivity in Uttar Pradesh over the past nine years. Weekly flight movements have surged from 700 in 2014 to an impressive 1,654, showcasing the state’s increased prominence in the aviation sector.
The developments in Uttar Pradesh underscore the government’s focus on enhancing air connectivity, fostering economic growth, and facilitating convenient travel for residents and visitors alike. The expansion of aviation infrastructure aligns with broader efforts to boost tourism and business activities in the state.