SURAT- India’s largest domestic carrier, IndiGo (6E) Airlines, has exciting news for travelers in Surat (STV) as they will soon introduce direct flights to the Union Territory of Diu (DIU) as part of the UDAN scheme, starting with the upcoming winter schedule.
These flights from Surat to Diu will provide a convenient connection to Ahmedabad. They are scheduled to operate on all days except Wednesdays, mainly due to the temporary closure of the runway at Ahmedabad Airport (AMD). Passengers can expect a flight duration of approximately 45 minutes.
IndiGo to Start Surat to Diu Flights
This development has been eagerly awaited by travelers in Surat, offering them easier access to the popular tourist destination of Diu. Further, the flight is more likely to be operated by ATR 72 aircraft.
Until now, the primary travel options from Surat to Diu involved lengthy road journeys of around 13 hours or train journeys lasting approximately 10 hours.
The upcoming direct flights between Surat and Diu will be a significant advantage for both tourists and business travelers. Subsequently offering them time and cost savings while providing access to Diu’s picturesque beaches and various attractions.
The We Work for Working Airport at Surat (WWWAS) team has maintained continuous communication with senior officials at IndiGo Airlines. Further advocating for the commencement of direct air connectivity between Surat and Diu through the UDAN scheme.
UDAN Route
The Government of India had granted approval to IndiGo to operate flights on the Surat-Ahmedabad-Diu route under the UDAN initiative.
The UDAN scheme, a government effort to enhance regional connectivity by subsidizing airfares for airlines, has successfully linked numerous remote and underserved airports across India.
The introduction of direct flights from Surat to Diu is poised to boost tourism in the area significantly. Thereupon, it will attract more visitors from Surat and various regions of Gujarat to explore the beauty of Diu.
These flights are anticipated to commence operations in December 2023. The passengers can conveniently book their tickets through the IndiGo website or mobile app.
Leasing units at Gujarat GIFT City
Recently, IndiGo announced its plan to establish leasing units in GIFT City, Gujarat.
IndiGo, with approximately 1,000 aircraft in its order pipeline, stated its intention to create a leasing unit to finance its aircraft, with an investment of Rs 30 crore.
IndiGo will provide a corporate guarantee of up to $996 million to support its payment obligations. It is anticipated that IndiGo will initially lease approximately 10 Airbus A320neo aircraft through this leasing subsidiary.
The government’s objective is to develop GIFT City into a global leasing hub similar to Dubai, Ireland, and Singapore.
To attract global players, various financial benefits, including tax incentives like the waiver of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Capital Gain Tax, have been announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Stitharaman.
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