The Punjab and Haryana High Court has raised concerns regarding the limited number of international flights operating from Chandigarh Airport, highlighting the need for improved connectivity for the region. During a recent hearing, the Bench described the situation as “unfortunate,” pointing out that Chandigarh Airport currently offers only two daily international flights, significantly fewer than other airports in the region.
In contrast, the court noted that Amritsar Airport, a district-level facility, operates an impressive 14 international flights to various destinations. This disparity in flight availability has raised questions about the development priorities of Chandigarh Airport, which serves as a key transportation hub for residents of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.
The court’s observations reflect a growing frustration among travelers and stakeholders regarding the underutilization of Chandigarh Airport. With its strategic location and the potential to serve a larger passenger base, the limited international connectivity is viewed as a missed opportunity for enhancing regional economic growth and tourism. The court emphasized that better international connectivity could facilitate trade, promote tourism, and contribute to the overall development of the region.
Legal representatives for the state government acknowledged the court’s concerns and expressed a commitment to exploring options for increasing international flight operations from Chandigarh Airport. They indicated that discussions with airline operators and relevant authorities are underway to identify potential routes and enhance the airport’s attractiveness to airlines.
The issue of limited international flights has been a long-standing concern for residents of Chandigarh and surrounding areas. Many travelers have expressed frustration at the lack of direct international connections, often requiring them to travel to neighboring airports, such as Amritsar or Delhi, to catch flights to their desired destinations. This not only adds to travel time and costs but also places an additional burden on passengers seeking efficient travel options.
Chandigarh Airport is well-equipped to handle a higher volume of flights, with modern facilities and infrastructure capable of accommodating increased passenger traffic. The High Court’s intervention serves as a timely reminder of the need for airport authorities and the government to prioritize improvements in international connectivity to better serve the region’s population.
As the court continues to monitor the situation, stakeholders remain hopeful that the discussions will yield positive results. Enhanced international connectivity from Chandigarh Airport could significantly benefit travelers, promote business opportunities, and contribute to the economic growth of the region.
In conclusion, the High Court’s questioning of the limited international flight operations from Chandigarh Airport underscores the pressing need for enhanced connectivity. With Amritsar Airport successfully operating multiple international flights, the disparity highlights the potential for Chandigarh Airport to expand its reach and serve as a vital transportation hub for the region. The ongoing discussions among stakeholders aim to address these concerns and ultimately improve travel options for the people of Chandigarh and surrounding areas.