Regular flights from Naini Saini airstrip from 26th Jan onwards
Pithoragarh: In a New Year gift to tourists, regular air services from Naini Saini airstrip in Pithoragarh are set to commence from Republic Day on January 26. The flights will be operated to Dehradun, Pantnagar and Chiniyalisur. The trial landing of a nine-seater aircraft was successfully completed on Sunday.
Rakesh Sharma, the former chief secretary of Uttarakhand, said, “Initially, a 10-seater aircraft will be operated from the airstrip followed by a 22-seater aircraft. Thereafter, if there are enough passengers, a 42-seater aircraft will fly from the airstrip.” Under the state government’s ‘Himalaya Darshan’ programme, from December 1, helicopter services will also begin from the airstrip to take tourists over the picturesque Panchachauli and Chhota Kailash peaks.
Government to offer subsidized helicopter rise for first 45 days
For the first one and a half months, the government will offer the helicopter services on subsidized prices. The helicopter service to Panchachauli will cost Rs 2,000 per person for a journey lasting half an hour, while for Chhota Kailiash, it will cost Rs 3,000 per person for an hour’s journey. Sharma said, “The helicopters will also double up as air ambulances to lift patients and senior citizens from remote villages.”
The state government will be purchasing two smaller aircraft for operation of services, added Sharma. Naini Saini airstrip will generate employment to 48 local people who will be hired as security agents and other helpers.
