In a bid to boost regional air connectivity, Karnataka’s Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil is advocating for the expansion of flight routes and international recognition for Belagavi Airport.
Proposed Routes and Connectivity Expansion:
At present, Belagavi Airport operates 44 weekly flights, but there’s increasing demand for a direct connection to Pune. However, landing slot constraints remain an issue. Minister Patil has proposed introducing flights to Chennai, Kochi, and Kalaburagi as part of efforts to expand the city’s air network.
International Airport Status for Belagavi and Hubballi:
Highlighting the significant passenger volume and the inconvenience faced by international travelers, Patil has urged the Centre to grant international status to both Belagavi and Hubballi airports. At present, international flyers from the region rely on Goa’s airport. Elevating the status of these airports would benefit a large commuter base in North Karnataka.
Current Operations at Belagavi Airport:
Belagavi Airport (IXG) presently offers seven domestic services and no direct international flights. Travelers must currently connect via major hubs like New Delhi or Mumbai for international travel.
Government Measures to Improve Air Connectivity:
To enhance flight operations across the state, the government is implementing several steps:
- Increasing frequencies: For instance, the Kalaburagi-Bengaluru route, now operating three times a week, is expected to see increased frequency following discussions with airline operators.
- Incentives for airlines: The state is considering waiving parking charges to promote the use of smaller airports for overnight halts and maintenance.
- New airport launches: The Vijayapura Airport is fully developed and awaiting environmental clearance from the Centre to commence operations.
