1. Pakyong Airport, crucial for Gangtok, resumes flights to Delhi and Kolkata after a six-month break.
2. Resumption of commercial operations heralds a milestone for air travel in Sikkim.
3. Flights operate five days a week, excluding Mondays and Fridays, enhancing regional connectivity.
Gangtok, March 31: After a hiatus of six months, commercial flight operations have resumed at Pakyong Airport, marking a significant milestone for air travel in Sikkim.
The airport, serving as a seasonal domestic hub for Gangtok, has restarted its services with flights to two major destinations, Delhi and Kolkata.
However, flights will only operate five days a week, excluding Mondays and Fridays.
The reopening witnessed the arrival of the Delhi-Pakyong commercial flight, bringing in a substantial number of passengers.
Passengers were warmly welcomed by Pakyong Airport Director Rajendra Grover and the airport staff, who provided refreshments including tea and snacks as a gesture of hospitality at the arrival point.
Spanning 201 acres and located approximately 31 km south of Gangtok, Pakyong Airport stands at an elevation of 4,646 ft, making it one of the five highest airports in India.
It holds the distinction of being the first greenfield airport in Northeast India and the sole airport in Sikkim.
Also Read: Continued Heavy Rainfall Expected Across Northeast India Until Monday
Inaugurated on September 24, 2018, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, commercial flight operations at Pakyong Airport officially commenced on October 4, 2018.
Despite its picturesque location and acclaimed engineering, Pakyong Airport faced operational challenges due to adverse weather conditions. Originally designed as a Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Airport, its operations were frequently hindered by weather constraints.
The resumption of commercial flights at Pakyong Airport is anticipated to revitalize air connectivity to the region, facilitating smoother travel for both locals and tourists.
