Srinagar, June 2: The Srinagar International Airport will suspend all flight operations for twice a day for three months from July 1 and continuous shutdown for 15 days from October 1 to undergo crucial runway maintenance and repair work.
The tourism stakeholders have said suspension of flight operations would deal a blow to Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector.
According to an advisory issued by Srinagar Airport, flight operations may be affected due to the proposed runway maintenance work planned by the Indian Air Force.
The advisory stated that the airport runway is proposed to remain unavailable every Monday and Tuesday from July 1 to September 30 as part of the scheduled maintenance exercise.
It further said that a complete closure of runway operations has been proposed from October 1 to October 16.
Airport authorities, however, clarified that the schedule is still in the planning stage and has not yet received formal approval.
“As soon as the schedule is formally approved, detailed updates will be shared through official channels,” the advisory said.
Passengers have been urged to stay in touch with Srinagar Airport and their respective airlines for timely and authentic updates regarding flight schedules and operations.
Flight operations at Srinagar Airport have already been under restrictions since April this year due to ongoing runway maintenance works undertaken as part of the airport’s expansion and modernization plans. According to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Indian Air Force, these restrictions were initially scheduled to remain in place till July 31.
The tourism stakeholders are worried and concerned over the extended flight disruptions at Srinagar airport.
“The Valley traditionally witnesses a massive influx of tourists from West Bengal during this period,” they said.
They fear the closure will lead to widespread cancellations and heavy financial losses.
The tourism stakeholders have urging authorities to reconsider the timeline, saying that cutting off air connectivity during one of the busiest domestic tourism blocks of the year could devastate the local economy.