CM Dhami Launches Heli Services on Pithoragarh–Munsiyari and Haldwani–Almora Routes
Seamless travel for remote areas, tourism and economy to get a major boost
Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday virtually inaugurated the Pithoragarh–Munsiyari–Pithoragarh and Haldwani–Almora–Haldwani helicopter services under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) regional connectivity scheme.
The CM said that the launch of these air services will provide easy and reliable transport to people living in remote areas, while also accelerating tourism and economic growth.
Direct Benefits for Almora and Munsiyari
Highlighting the significance of these towns, CM Dhami said Almora and Munsiyari are among Uttarakhand’s ancient and culturally rich destinations, known for their scenic beauty, historic temples, and vibrant heritage. With the new heli services, tourists will now be able to reach these places with much more convenience.
He pointed out that the travel time from Haldwani to Almora, which usually takes 3 to 4 hours by road, will now be reduced to just a few minutes.
Strengthening Air Connectivity in Uttarakhand
The Chief Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary UDAN scheme for strengthening air connectivity across Uttarakhand. Currently, 18 heliports are being developed in the state, with services already operational from 12 of them.
So far, helicopter services have successfully connected important destinations like Gauchar, Joshiyara, Haldwani, Munsiyari, Mussoorie, Pithoragarh, Pantnagar, Champawat, Bageshwar, Nainital, and Almora. More destinations will be added in the near future.
Push for International Flights
CM Dhami also informed that the state government is working towards expanding international flight services to position Uttarakhand as a global tourism destination. Efforts are underway to upgrade Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) and Pantnagar Airport for international operations.
Service Schedule and Fare
The heli services will operate 7 days a week with two daily flights on each route:
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Pithoragarh–Munsiyari: 10:30 AM & 1:50 PM
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Munsiyari–Pithoragarh: 10:50 AM & 2:10 PM
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Haldwani–Almora: 11:50 AM & 3:10 PM
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Almora–Haldwani: 12:50 PM & 4:10 PM
The fare has been fixed at ₹2500 per passenger. Tickets can be booked online through https://airheritage.in/
Officials Present
The launch event was attended by UCADA Secretary Sachin Kurve, UCADA CEO Ashish Chauhan, and other senior officials.
