BENGALURU- On Saturday, Karnataka Industries and Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil mentioned that the state is exploring the possibility of establishing its own regional airline to enhance local connectivity.
Patil expressed, ‘This is a visionary idea. Following the successful management of our own airports, we have been contemplating the establishment of our own airline. We could acquire and deploy three aircraft for intracity routes such as Mysore to Bangalore, Bangalore to Hubli, etc.’
Karnataka Eyes New Regional Airline
Minister MB Patil stated that the estimated cost for this endeavor would amount to approximately ₹600 crore.
“We must thoroughly assess the advantages and disadvantages of this proposal. It’s still in the conceptual stage and needs to be implemented. Over the next six months, we will develop a well-structured plan outlining our course of action,” he further commented.
The state minister made this announcement shortly after the inaugural flight touched down at the newly built Shivamogga Airport in Karnataka.
Notably, several prominent politicians, including former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, were among the passengers on the IndiGo flight originating from Bengaluru.
First State-Run Airport
Karnataka Minister MB Patil announced on Tuesday that Shivamogga Airport would become the first airport operated by the state government. He stated, “It is expected to play a significant role in fostering economic growth, industrial development, tourism, and education in the region.”
Patil emphasized that Shivamogga Airport would serve as a crucial connecting hub for the Malnad and central Karnataka districts. The service will also be advantageous for residents of surrounding districts, including Chikkamagaluru, Davanagere, Chitradurga, and Haveri.
The future focus will involve establishing direct flight connections to destinations like Delhi, Hyderabad, Tirupati, Chennai, and Goa to enhance air travel accessibility.
Furthermore, Patil mentioned that a tender has already been initiated under the Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme to expand flight services from Shivamogga.
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