Expected to become lifeline during harsh winters in Himachal high-altitude belts
Munish Sood
MANDI:
In a significant development for regional air connectivity, a successful trial helicopter flight was conducted between Sanjauli helipad in Shimla and the SASE helipad in Manali under the Centre’s UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme.
The test was carried out using a single-engine AS 350 B3 helicopter and marks an important milestone toward introducing scheduled aerial services in mountainous regions of the state.
Officers and personnel from tourism, police, medical and fire departments were present at the Manali helipad to oversee the trial. Authorities expressed confidence that commercial services on this route may commence soon, subject to operational clearances and safety evaluations.
Critical need for winter connectivity
The trial holds significant relevance as Himachal Pradesh prepares to enter peak winter months, when heavy snowfall frequently disrupts road connectivity between Shimla, Kullu and Manali.
Highway closures caused by avalanches, landslides, black ice and prolonged storms often leave local residents, tourists and essential services stranded. During such months, movement of medical emergencies, essential supplies and rescue operations becomes increasingly difficult.
Introducing reliable aerial connectivity is therefore expected to serve as a crucial support mechanism. Rapid helicopter access can enable urgent medical evacuation and trauma response, support rescue and disaster-relief teams during weather-related emergencies, ensure continuity of essential supply chains when roads remain blocked and provide safe travel alternatives for residents and tourists alike.
For the region’s tourism-driven economy, such air connectivity is also expected to safeguard livelihoods that face uncertainty each winter due to unpredictable road conditions.
Strengthening regional integration through UDAN
The UDAN scheme focuses on enhancing regional connectivity and making air travel accessible and affordable for remote and underserved regions. For Himachal Pradesh, where terrain and ecological sensitivity limit large-scale airport development, helicopter-based links offer a sustainable and practical mobility solution.
The successful Shimla-Manali trial is seen as an important step toward establishing a network of short-route air corridors connecting high-altitude districts, major tourist centers and medical-critical locations across the state.
Plans are underway to expand services to other difficult regions such as Lahaul-Spiti, Pangi, Kinnaur and Bharmour, which remain cut off for weeks during peak winter.
Boost for Tourism, Economy and Local Communities
The proposed route is expected to deliver multi-sector benefits. For tourism, it will ensure safe and reliable access even during snowfall, promoting year-round travel. For local residents, there will be faster access to healthcare and essential services. The economy will get a boost due to sustained commercial activity during seasonal road closures. In terms of emergency response, the facility will ensure swift deployment of relief operations and essential resources.
Following the successful trial, technical assessments, safety audits and scheduling frameworks will be undertaken to begin regular commercial operations. Fare structures and service frequency are expected to be finalised after stakeholder consultations.
The successful trial flight represents a transformative moment for Himachal Pradesh. More than an aviation achievement, it reflects a lifeline for communities living in challenging high-altitude terrain, promising safety, continuity and opportunity during the harsh winter months.
