Infrastructure
Island Hopping Made Easy: Andaman's Two New Airport Terminals To Be Operational In July
V Bhagya Subhashini
Apr 02, 2024, 03:12 PM | Updated 03:10 PM IST
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In a significant development aimed at enhancing inter-island connectivity in Andaman and Nicobar islands. The terminal buildings at Shibpur in North Andaman and Car Nicobar in Nicobar have been successfully completed, paving the way for anticipated flight operations commencing in July.
A 19-seater fixed-wing aircraft will soon operate between Port Blair-Shibpur and Port Blair to Car Nicobar. A private company has already been selected as the designated operator for these routes.
Veer Savarkar International Airport Director Devender Yadav stated, “Both these sectors will be connected with Port Blair under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, benefiting tourists and enabling exploration of exotic places in North Andaman and Nicobar districts. We anticipate flight operations to begin in July.”
UDAN is designed to enable air operations on underserved/unserved routes connecting regional areas, promote balanced regional growth and make flying affordable for the masses.
Yadav further disclosed plans to implement an in-line baggage handling system, aimed at streamlining passenger processing at Veer Savarkar airport in Port Blair, reports Financial Express.
Highlighting the broader economic impact of airports, Yadav cited an International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) study, stating, “Every Rs 100 spent on air transport contributes to Rs 325 worth of benefits and every 100 direct job creation in air transport results in 610 job creation in the region.”
The completion of terminal buildings and imminent flight operations are poised to not only improve connectivity but also serve as a catalyst for economic development in the region, fostering tourism and trade alike.
Efforts are also underway to expand airline connectivity, particularly with Southeast Asian countries, to facilitate cheaper air travel. Additionally, plans for seaplane services operating from Port Blair to inter-island destinations are in progress.
Andaman and Nicobar administration is implementing a series of initiatives aimed at attracting more visitors. These efforts include granting access to uninhabited islands, extending beach hours till late at night, and engaging with additional airline operators to enhance connectivity.
The administration is focusing on providing unique experiences for tourists, such as nighttime beach access to witness the natural beauty of the landscape and bio-luminescence.
Various policies promoting tourism activities, including bird watching, caravan tourism, and luxury accommodations such as houseboats and tents, are in their final stages of development.
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