Ludhiana-Delhi Direct Flights Approved: DGCA Summer Schedule Unveils Two Daily Services
Ludhiana is poised to finally receive its long-awaited direct air link to Delhi, as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has officially included the Ludhiana-Delhi route in its summer schedule. This development provides for two daily flights, marking a significant milestone for the city's aviation connectivity.
Schedule and Operational Details
The summer schedule, valid from March 29 to October 24 this year, outlines flights expected to operate on all days of the week. According to the DGCA schedule, the first flight from Delhi is scheduled to arrive at Halwara Airport at 9:45 AM, with the corresponding departure from Halwara to Delhi at 10:25 AM. A second flight is listed, with arrival from Delhi at 2:10 PM and departure from Halwara at 2:40 PM.
As per the website of the private airline expected to operate the service, flight duration between Ludhiana and Delhi is approximately one hour and 20 minutes. The website notes that direct flights will operate with daily frequency, although exact frequency may vary. Economy class fares for the Ludhiana-Delhi sector are indicated at around Rs 6,400, though prices may fluctuate based on demand and season.
Infrastructure and Pending Formalities
Sources in the Airports Authority of India (AAI) have confirmed that space has been allotted to the private airline at Halwara Airport for commencement of operations. However, the airline has yet to set up its office, and deployment of security personnel remains pending, despite over 50 Punjab Police personnel completing training for airport security duties.
AAI officials stated that Halwara Airport possesses the requisite infrastructure for start of operations, and flights could begin immediately once remaining formalities are completed. They added that while the airline is expected to start operations around mid-May, the ticket booking process may commence in the first half of April.
Public Anticipation and Benefits
Ludhiana residents are eagerly awaiting the commencement of flight operations. Ravjyot Singh, a city resident, emphasized that flights should start without further delay, as the service has been long awaited. He highlighted the convenience of flight timings for passengers traveling internationally or arriving in Ludhiana by air.
"Most international flights arrive in the morning, so the morning flight from Delhi to Ludhiana will suit passengers arriving from abroad via IGI Airport. The afternoon flight will also benefit people traveling between Delhi and Ludhiana," Singh remarked.
Another resident, Dr. Gauhar Vatsyayan, who has been closely tracking developments, expressed his intention to travel to Delhi around May 15 and hopes to use the flight from Halwara Airport. He noted that an early start of operations would greatly benefit residents who have been waiting for improved air connectivity.
Additional Insights from Officials
Union Minister of State from Punjab, Ravneet Singh Bittu, announced on Sunday that flight ticket bookings are expected to begin in April, with flight operations likely to start between May 10 and May 15. The Airbus A-320 aircraft, with a seating capacity of 180 passengers, will operate on the Halwara-Delhi route.
This initiative is set to enhance regional connectivity and provide a much-needed boost to travel and economic activities in the area.
