Siliguri, Sept 04: Sikkim’s picturesque landscapes and serene beauty always attract tourists but getting there hasn’t always been straightforward, it’s good news for travelers and residents alike as daily flight operations between Kolkata and Pakyong in Sikkim set to take off on September 15. This development marks a significant step in improving connectivity to this enchanting part of India.
Pakyong, nestled in the heart of Sikkim, is home to the state’s first greenfield airport. While this airport had previously introduced flight services, they faced an interruption due to inclement weather. Rajendra Grover, the director of Pakyong Airport, provided insights into the recent history of aviation in the region. Flight operations initially began on March 14 but came to a temporary halt in June. On June 15, a flight bound for Pakyong had to be diverted to Bagdogra due to unfavorable weather conditions, and this unfortunate turn of events led to a pause in operations.
However, now the skies are once again open above Pakyong. SpiceJet, the sole airline serving Pakyong airport, resumed its services after a hiatus of two and a half months since June 15. This reactivation of flight services between Delhi and Pakyong is a boon for tourists and residents alike.
The flight schedule for the Delhi-Pakyong route is set to be operational five days a week, with services being suspended on Mondays and Fridays. Meanwhile, for those traveling from Kolkata to Pakyong, flights will be available daily, making it a convenient option for travelers.
The resumption of flight services has already seen a positive response, with travelers flocking to take advantage of this newfound convenience. On the inaugural day of renewed operations, the airport welcomed 52 passengers arriving from Delhi, along with six departing passengers. This trend continued into the following day, with 44 passengers arriving and 31 departing from Pakyong.
Airport officials noted that the first flight from Delhi touched down at 12:40 PM and took off at 1:10 PM. This new service promises to not only enhance tourism prospects but also foster better connectivity for residents of Sikkim to major cities like Delhi and Kolkata.
As excitement builds around this new flight route, it’s worth mentioning that the demand for flights from Delhi to Pakyong has been robust, with bookings extending into September. However, return flights from Pakyong to Delhi have seen varying levels of demand, highlighting the need for airlines to adapt and cater to the evolving travel preferences of passengers.
The resumption of daily flight operations between Kolkata and Pakyong is a promising development for Sikkim’s tourism industry and its residents. With enhanced connectivity and convenient travel options, the region is poised to attract even more visitors eager to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness that Sikkim has to offer.
