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In a significant advancement for air travel in Himachal Pradesh, regular helicopter services commenced from the Sanjauli helipad in Shimla on Tuesday. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated these services, which are anticipated to greatly enhance tourism, decrease travel times between remote areas, and improve emergency medical responses in the region.

Daily Flights and New Routes

The newly launched operations will feature daily helicopter flights connecting Sanjauli with Bhuntar airport in Kullu and Rekong Peo in Kinnaur. Additionally, services between Chandigarh and Sanjauli will be available three times a week on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Impact on Tourism

This helicopter connectivity is poised to transform Himachal's tourism landscape, particularly appealing to high-end travelers and adventure seekers who desire quicker access to remote areas like Kinnaur and upper Kullu. These picturesque regions, rich in cultural heritage, often face accessibility issues due to adverse weather and road conditions.

Affordable Fares

Officials have set the fares at ₹3,500 for the Sanjauli–Kullu route, ₹4,000 for Sanjauli–Rekong Peo, and ₹3,169 for Sanjauli–Chandigarh.

Boosting Tourism Potential

Tourism professionals are optimistic that enhanced aerial connectivity will draw premium tourists who prefer shorter travel times and greater comfort while exploring the hill state. Popular destinations like Kinnaur, Spiti, Manali, and Lahaul have long been on the radar of both domestic and international travelers but are often challenging to reach by road.

Future Expansion Plans

Proposals have already been submitted to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for additional helicopter routes, including Sanjauli–Rampur–Rekong Peo and Sanjauli–Manali (Sase helipad), which will further enhance the state's tourism offerings.

Infrastructure Development

The state government is also focused on constructing helipads at key tourist locations and district headquarters. Four new helipads are expected to be completed by March–April next year in Jaskot (Hamirpur), Rakkar and Palampur (Kangra), and Chamba, each with an estimated development cost of ₹15 crore.

Emergency Medical Services

Beyond tourism, these helicopter services are anticipated to be vital for emergency medical evacuations. The Sanjauli helipad's proximity to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla, the state's leading healthcare facility, will facilitate quicker airlifts for patients from remote areas during emergencies.

Long-Awaited Project Comes to Life

The Sanjauli helipad project has been in the works for several years, with its foundation stone laid in September 2017 and completion achieved in January 2022 at a cost of ₹15.86 crore. However, operations were delayed due to regulatory approvals, which were finally granted on August 7, 2025.

Industry Reactions

Local hotel operators, tour planners, and adventure tourism providers have expressed enthusiasm about the new services, believing it will enhance Himachal's appeal as a year-round destination. A Shimla-based tour operator noted that tourists traveling from Delhi, Chandigarh, and abroad often spend two days just reaching Kinnaur or upper Kullu, and helicopter services will make these areas more accessible for shorter vacations.

Looking Forward

As Himachal Pradesh continues to prioritize sustainable tourism and infrastructure growth, helicopter connectivity is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing access, safety, and economic opportunities across the state's challenging terrain. Officials plan to introduce more routes gradually as passenger demand stabilizes and operational viability is evaluated.