SURAT- Leave behind the hassles of traffic congestion and flight delays; the allure of diamonds in Surat might soon have its wings.
Faced with the elusive Surat-Mumbai air link, the diamond barons of Surat are taking the initiative, considering the acquisition of private aircraft to directly transport international buyers to the Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB).
Surat Diamond Businessmen Private Aircraft
For years, international diamond buyers have had to endure the cumbersome journey from Mumbai to Surat, the global diamond polishing hub, either by rail or road. This challenging commute, fraught with delays and logistical complexities, has been a persistent issue in the industry.
Sources in the aviation industry told Blunt Times that the prominent figures in the Surat business community are gearing up to procure 10 aircraft and a helicopter.
This fleet will include an air ambulance dedicated to transporting donated organs from the city to various hospitals across the country. Additionally, private jets will be available for the personal use of these businessmen.
The Surat Diamond Bourse, recognized as the world’s largest office building, houses major diamond manufacturing companies such as Kiran Gems, Dharmanandan Diamonds, Shree Ram Krishna Exports, Hari Krishna Exports, and more.
However, at present, a group consisting of three to four influential diamond barons is devising an audacious strategy to overcome the limitations of commercial aviation.
They are in the process of planning the acquisition of small, single-engine aircraft with the capability to swiftly transport buyers from Mumbai to Surat in a luxurious and time-efficient flight.
Absence of Mumbai-Surat Air Connectivity
Expressing concern about the potential absence of Surat-Mumbai air connectivity, one of the diamond barons, who opts to remain anonymous, poses the question, “What if the airlines don’t initiate Surat-Mumbai air connectivity? We can’t subject international buyers to the inconvenience of ground travel. That’s why we’re exploring the option of private jets.”
This seasoned diamond business veteran has already placed an order for a sophisticated American aircraft valued at Rs 30 crore. This airborne jewel box is set to transport buyers from countries like the United States, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Belgium directly to the Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB), circumventing the bottleneck in Mumbai.
He enthusiastically envisions the prospect of arriving in India and promptly being transported to the heart of the diamond trade within minutes.
For him, it’s all about offering convenience efficiency, and creating a truly unique experience for their clients.
Eyening More Business with Private Jets
The private jet initiative is not merely a fanciful remedy. Despite numerous promises and proposals over the years, the Surat-Mumbai air link remains elusive. This absence of direct connectivity not only impacts diamond buyers but also impedes the city’s progress as a global diamond trade center.
“To truly showcase Surat on the global stage, we require seamless air connectivity,” asserts another diamond baron, echoing the sentiments of many. “While private jets may offer a temporary solution, they underscore the pressing need for a dedicated air link between the two cities.”
The revelation of the diamond barons’ private jet plans has reverberated throughout the industry. Some view it as a creative and proactive solution, while others express concerns about long-term sustainability and potential regulatory challenges.
Nevertheless, one thing remains evident: the audacious move by the diamond barons highlights the growing frustration with the lack of advancements in the Surat-Mumbai air link.
Whether these private jets come into operation or not, their mere existence serves as a poignant reminder that the diamond city is prepared to ascend, one way or another.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News.