The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has approved an incentive scheme aimed at promoting international flights from 13 airports across the country, including Kushinagar International Airport in Uttar Pradesh.
This move is expected to bolster the prospects of international flight operations from Kushinagar, where domestic flights have remained suspended for the past 18 months. Under the new scheme, airlines operating on new international routes will be offered exemptions on landing and parking fees, as well as other related charges. This initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance regional connectivity and promote tourism, particularly in areas with significant cultural and historical importance. Kushinagar International Airport, inaugurated in October 2021, is strategically located in the heart of the Buddhist circuit, which includes key pilgrimage sites such as Lumbini, Sarnath, and Bodh Gaya.
The airport’s inclusion in the AAI incentive scheme is expected to facilitate direct connectivity with South Asian countries, thereby improving accessibility for tourists and pilgrims from Sri Lanka, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and others. The airport boasts the longest runway among all international airports in Uttar Pradesh, measuring 3.2 kilometers in length and 45 meters in width. It also features a terminal building with an area of 3,600 square meters, capable of handling 300 peak-hour passengers. These facilities make it well-equipped to handle international flights and cater to the needs of both passengers and airlines.
Despite its potential, Kushinagar Airport has faced challenges in attracting regular international flight operations. Issues such as the presence of high structures near the runway and the absence of critical navigation systems have hindered its operations. However, efforts are underway to address these concerns, with the removal of obstructions and the installation of necessary systems expected to be completed within the year. The inclusion of Kushinagar Airport in the AAI incentive scheme is a positive step towards revitalizing its operations and establishing it as a key hub for international travel. The scheme’s financial incentives are anticipated to attract airlines to consider Kushinagar as a viable destination, thereby boosting tourism and contributing to the local economy.
In addition to its potential as a tourist destination, Kushinagar Airport is strategically positioned to serve a population of over 20 million people across 10-15 districts in eastern Uttar Pradesh and western Bihar. This demographic includes a significant number of migrant workers, for whom improved air connectivity can facilitate easier travel and communication with their home regions. The development of Kushinagar Airport is part of a broader initiative to enhance infrastructure and connectivity in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, thereby promoting balanced regional development. By offering incentives to airlines, the AAI aims to stimulate interest in underserved airports and encourage the growth of air travel in these areas.
As the aviation industry continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, initiatives like the AAI incentive scheme play a crucial role in revitalizing the sector and ensuring that the benefits of air connectivity are accessible to a wider population. The success of this scheme could serve as a model for similar initiatives in other regions, contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of the aviation industry in India. In conclusion, the inclusion of Kushinagar Airport in the AAI incentive scheme marks a significant milestone in the efforts to enhance international connectivity and promote tourism in Uttar Pradesh. With the implementation of necessary infrastructure improvements and the support of financial incentives, Kushinagar is poised to become a key player in India’s aviation landscape, offering new opportunities for travelers and contributing to the region’s economic development.
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