The Himachal Pradesh government is planning to start regular flight services on the Delhi–Shimla and Shimla–Dharamshala routes and provide financial support of Rs 31 crore every year to keep these services running, officials said on Wednesday.
The decision aims to promote high-end and time-sensitive tourism in the state. A government spokesperson said the flights will operate on all seven days of the week.
The spokesperson said the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Himachal government has given top priority to tourism and has initiated several initiatives to improve facilities for visitors.
He said tourism has the potential to play a key role in strengthening the state’s economy and creating jobs and self-employment opportunities for the youth.
"This enhanced air connectivity will give a major boost to tourism and contribute significantly to the overall economic development of the state. The initiative will reduce travel time, improve accessibility and facilitate seamless movement for tourists, business travelers, as well as the locals," he added.
He said reliable air services to Shimla and Dharamshala would also help improve administrative functioning, allow faster medical evacuations, and ensure timely response during emergencies and natural disasters.
"The continued operation of these routes is a strategic infrastructure intervention aimed at promoting tourism and fostering long-term socio-economic growth. Subsidised regional air connectivity will benefit daily commuters, business travellers and tourists alike," he said.
The spokesperson said that apart from the state’s three operational airports, Himachal Pradesh has several helipads and is building heliports at district headquarters and major tourist destinations. Recently, helicopter services were started from the Sanjauli heliport to Chandigarh and Reckong Peo, giving tourists a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the state.
He further said helicopter services on the Sanjauli–Rampur–Reckong Peo and Sanjauli–Manali routes will also begin soon. Proposals for these routes have already been sent to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation for approval of standard operating procedures.
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