Himachal to provide Rs. 31 crore annually to support Delhi–Shimla–Dharamshala flights
A Spokesperson of the state government today said that in a significant initiative to strengthen air connectivity, and to promote high-end and time-sensitive tourism, the government has decided to operationalise regular flight services on the Delhi-Shimla and Shimla-Dharamshala routes. The flights will operate seven days a week, with the state government providing financial assistance of Rs. 31 crore per annum to ensure their sustained operation.
He said that the present state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was according top priority to the tourism sector and has launched multiple initiatives to enhance visitor facilities. He emphasized that tourism has the potential to play a pivotal role in strengthening the State’s economy while generating employment and self-employment opportunities for the youth.
A spokesman of the State Government said that enhanced air connectivity would 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, and the general public.
The spokesman added that reliable air services to Shimla and Dharamsala would also strengthen administrative functioning, enable 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. Subsidized regional air connectivity will benefit daily commuters, business travelers, and tourists alike.
He further stated that, in addition to the three operational airports, the State has several helipads and is constructing heliports at every district headquarters and other major tourist destinations. Recently, helicopter services have been launched from the Sanjauli heliport to Chandigarh and Reckong Peo, offering tourists a unique opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of the State. Additionally, helicopter services on the Sanjauli-Rampur-Reckong Peo and Sanjauli-Manali (SASE Helipad) routes would also be started soon. Proposals for these routes have already been submitted to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for approval of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
