From Local to Global: Dehradun’s International Airport Ambitions
The Uttarakhand government is taking bold steps to boost inbound tourism by transforming Dehradun into an international airport. Recently, the government initiated the process by inviting airlines to submit proposals for operating subsidized direct flights between Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport and Kathmandu, Nepal. This move, backed by the Union government, aims to position India as a premier international tourist destination, welcoming visitors from around the globe beyond just NRIs.
In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, while domestic travel has seen a resurgence, international inbound tourism is yet to fully recover. Foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) in India dropped to 62 lakh in 2022 from 1.1 crore in 2019, showing signs of improvement with 92.4 lakh arrivals last year. Industry experts are strategizing to not only restore FTAs to pre-pandemic levels but surpass them.
Industry stakeholders advocate for enhanced direct international connectivity, the development of new tourism circuits, and simplified visa procedures to boost India’s appeal among foreign tourists.
The aviation sector is poised to receive significant attention from the upcoming government, with plans underway to elevate India into a global aviation hub. Initiatives include expanding the country’s airport network and granting international status to more airports, facilitating direct flights from neighboring countries.
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The Uttarakhand government’s Request for Proposal (RFP) underscores its commitment to enhancing international connectivity and tourism. By establishing flight operations between Kathmandu and Dehradun, this initiative aims to strengthen historical ties and unlock new opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
Parties interested in bidding will propose viable plans based on a viability gap funding (VGF) per seat model, with the state providing financial support. Airfares will be market-driven, with no fare caps, allowing airlines to adapt to prevailing market conditions. The selected airline will operate a minimum of three round-trip flights per week using 70-seater aircraft, likely Airbus A320 or Boeing 737s.
The bidding process opens on April 25, and the chosen airline must commence operations within 60 days of receiving the letter of award. Established airlines with a proven operational track record and competitive VGF bids will be favored for the route.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is enthusiastic about Dehradun’s evolution into an international airport hub, with Kathmandu as the inaugural destination due to significant mutual interest and religious ties between the two regions.
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This ambitious project heralds a new era of international connectivity and tourism opportunities, setting the stage for a thriving partnership between Dehradun and Kathmandu. As India gears up to welcome global travelers, this initiative promises to reshape the landscape of inbound tourism and economic development.
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