Arora interacts on Mohali, Halwara and Sahnewal Airports with Secretary Civil Aviation

Ludhiana, August 19, 2023: MP (Rajya Sabha) from Ludhiana Sanjeev Arora met with the Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Rajiv Bansal, recently in Delhi to discuss various issues related to the aviation sector in Punjab. Also present were the Joint Secretaries Rubina Ali and Asangba Chuba. 

In this meeting, Arora raised the demand for resuming international flights to UK, Canada, and Australia from Chandigarh International Airport. Recently, the Minister of Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia had confirmed Arora that Chandigarh Airport has all the approvals to fly anywhere in World as far as Domestic Carriers are concerned. He had also sent DO letters to CEOs of all Domestic Carriers who fly international to operate from Mohali airport. The Secretary explained to Arora about the shortage of aircraft which was the main reason for Airlines not starting new destinations. On this issue Arora asked Secretary to use his good offices and ask Airlines to make Mohali as origin and it can be via any major Airport in India. 

Arora also urged the Secretary to persuade domestic airlines to operate flights from Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi and Mumbai to Halwara Airport as soon as it is ready. Arora gave information on work at Halwara Airport, which is slated to be completed soon. Another couple of months and Halwara Airport should be ready. The secretary assured Arora that once the airport is open, he will make sure flights start immediately. He indicated that Indigo would be the best option. 

Arora also requested the Secretary to resume flights to Ludhiana’s Sahnewal airport under the Udaan Scheme 4.2 till Halwara Airport is operational, which aims to provide regional connectivity and affordable air travel to the common people. Arora said that these steps would boost the economy and tourism of Punjab and benefit the people of the state. This was promised by the Minister back in January. However, due to delayed arrival of aircraft and DGCA approval it has been delayed. According to the Secretary this should also start at an early date. 

Arora also thanked the Secretary for his positive response and assured him of his full cooperation in resolving the issues.