Increase in number of daily flights to boost tourism sector in Ladakh

L-G Vinai Kumar Saxena says UT Admin committed to strengthening air connectivity in Ladakh

JK News Today

Leh, April 5: In a significant boost to air connectivity and the tourism sector in Ladakh, the onset of the new tourist season has seen a substantial increase in the number of daily flights operating to Leh starting April 1, 2026.

As per the flight schedule for April 2, 2026, flight operations at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh, have increased significantly from 8 flights (including 2 charter flights) to a total of 18 flights in a single day. These operations include two charter flights to Delhi and Chandigarh, along with regular scheduled services connecting Leh with major destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, Srinagar, and Chandigarh.

Additionally, two extra flights by Air India have been approved and are expected to commence operations shortly, which will further enhance connectivity and provide tourists and residents, a greater flexibility to plan their journeys to and fro from Leh.

The development comes as a result of sustained efforts led by Hon’ble LG, Shri VK Saxena, to improve connectivity with Ladakh. A delegation of tourism stakeholders comprising members of the All Ladakh Tour Operators Association (ALTOA), All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association (ALHGHA), and All Kargil Travel Trade Association (AKTTA) had earlier called on the LG, and requested his intervention in increasing the frequency of flights to Ladakh to facilitate a rise in tourist footfall in the region.

It is pertinent to mention that tourist inflow in Ladakh had witnessed a sharp decline last year and adversely affected the livelihoods of those dependent on tourism-related activities. The increase in flight operations is expected to play a crucial role in restoring tourists’ confidence and revitalizing the local economy.

The increase in daily flight operations also assume significance in wake of the upcoming Great Exposition of the Holy Relics of Buddha at Leh in May, followed by the first ever Sidhu Maha Kumbh in June this year. These mega events are expected to attract a large number of domestic and international tourists.

The Lieutenant Governor welcomed the increase in flight frequency and reiterated the Administration’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure and connectivity in Ladakh. He highlighted that the New Terminal Building at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which is nearing completion, will significantly enhance passenger handling capacity and provide a modern travel experience, thereby boosting tourist footfall in the region.

Reaffirming his vision, the Lieutenant Governor stated that continuous efforts are being made to position Ladakh as one of the best tourist destinations in the country, with a focus on sustainable and well-planned development.