Chief Minister Discusses Expansion of Air Services in Uttarakhand with Union Civil Aviation Minister

Sept 2025 : Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday met Union Civil Aviation Minister Mr. Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu in New Delhi and held detailed discussions on various issues related to the development of the aviation sector in the state, improvement of air connectivity, and boosting tourism.

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of Uttarakhand for the cooperation received in the aviation sector. He particularly appreciated the initiative of setting up kiosks under the umbrella brand ‘House of Himalayas’ at airports to promote local products, stating that it has provided recognition to the state’s products on national and international platforms.

He informed the Union Minister about the plan to restart helicopter services for the Char Dham Yatra after the monsoon season. These services are especially important for elderly, differently-abled, and physically weak pilgrims. Coordination between the state and central government departments on this matter is ongoing. In the high-level meeting held on September 1, several important suggestions were received for the operation of heli-services. The CM said that resuming helicopter services while ensuring the safety and convenience of pilgrims will make the yatra smoother and reduce pressure on roadways.

The CM further apprised the Minister that more than 70% of Uttarakhand is forest-covered, and in the hilly districts, air connectivity is not only essential but also highly significant for tourism, public transport, and disaster management. He requested the development of airstrips at Gauchar (Chamoli) and Chinyalisour (Uttarkashi) for small aircraft operations and their connection with Delhi, Dehradun, and Hindon. This, he said, will enhance the convenience of Char Dham travel and also ease the supply of essential goods in hilly regions.

He also requested the commencement of night flight services from Jolly Grant Airport to enable more passengers to benefit from air services. The CM discussed the expansion of Pantnagar Airport and informed that most of the necessary work has already been completed by the state government, requesting the Airports Authority of India to be directed to start work at the earliest.

Additionally, the CM urged for the early start of regular air services between Delhi and Pithoragarh under the Regional Connectivity Scheme, emphasizing that such connectivity would not only benefit tourism but also be strategically and humanitarianly significant.

He also requested that steps be taken to begin air services after inspecting the Chinyalisour and Gauchar airstrips. The CM appealed to the Union Minister to give priority to these proposals and grant approvals.

The Union Civil Aviation Minister assured the Chief Minister of positive action on all the proposals.

Department of Information & Public Relations