Sikkim’s Pakyong Airport is poised for significant expansion as multiple airlines prepare to commence operations from October 2024. Leading the charge is IndiGo, one of India’s top airlines, which will soon offer flights connecting Pakyong to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bangalore.
Pakyong AAI Director, Sanjeev Kumar Singh, assured that the recent landslide near the airport has not affected the runway, and repair work is being conducted vigorously. “The expansion is part of a broader plan to enhance connectivity and boost tourism in the region,” Singh stated.
The introduction of IndiGo’s flights is expected to significantly boost tourism in Sikkim. In addition to IndiGo, Nepal’s Buddha Air has shown interest in launching daily flights between Kathmandu and Pakyong, pending approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
Other airlines, including Blade Air and Jetwing, are also in discussions with the Sikkim government and AAI regarding potential operations. While Blade Air’s proposal is still under review, Jetwing has already been allocated a route from Guwahati to Pakyong under India’s Regional Connectivity Scheme. If all goes well, Jetwing may begin operations as early as November 2024.
