Munish Sood, Shimla
Himachal Pradesh took a significant step towards improving air connectivity in the hill state with the launch of regular helicopter services from Shimla’s Sanjauli helipad on Tuesday. The services, inaugurated by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, are expected to provide a major boost to tourism, reduce travel time between remote districts, and strengthen emergency medical response in the region.
With the commencement of operations, daily helicopter flights will now connect Sanjauli with Bhuntar airport in Kullu district and Rekong Peo in Kinnaur district. In addition, helicopter services between Chandigarh and Sanjauli will operate three days a week — on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays.
The introduction of helicopter connectivity is being seen as a game-changer for Himachal’s tourism sector, particularly for high-end travellers, adventure tourists and those seeking faster access to remote destinations like Kinnaur and upper Kullu. These regions, known for their scenic landscapes and cultural heritage, often remain cut off for long periods due to weather disruptions and road conditions.
According to officials, the fare has been fixed at ₹3,500 per passenger for Sanjauli–Kullu, ₹4,000 for Sanjauli–Rekong Peo, and ₹3,169 for Sanjauli–Chandigarh.
Tourism Set for a Lift
Tourism stakeholders believe that improved aerial connectivity will attract premium tourists who prefer shorter travel durations and greater comfort while exploring the hill state. Destinations such as Kinnaur, Spiti, Manali and Lahaul have long remained on the wish list of international and domestic travellers but are often difficult to access by road.
Officials said proposals have already been sent to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for starting additional helicopter routes including Sanjauli–Rampur–Rekong Peo and Sanjauli–Manali (Sase helipad), which will further strengthen the state’s tourism circuit.
The state government is also working on building helipads at major tourist hubs and district headquarters. Construction of four new helipads at Jaskot in Hamirpur, Rakkar and Palampur in Kangra, and Chamba is expected to be completed by March–April next year. Each helipad is being developed at an estimated cost of ₹15 crore.
Tourism experts say these projects will place Himachal on the map of premium mountain destinations offering modern infrastructure alongside natural beauty.
Critical Support for Medical Emergencies
Apart from tourism, the helicopter services are expected to play a crucial role in emergency medical evacuations. The Sanjauli helipad is located near Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, the state’s premier healthcare institution.
In cases of road accidents, natural disasters, or critical illnesses in far-flung areas like Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti and upper Shimla district, patients can now be airlifted quickly to Shimla, significantly cutting down response time.
Disaster management officials said helicopter connectivity will strengthen rescue and relief operations during landslides, flash floods and snow-related emergencies — recurring challenges in the mountainous state.
Long-Pending Project Becomes Operational
The Sanjauli helipad project has had a long gestation period. The foundation stone was laid in September 2017, and the facility was completed in January 2022 at a cost of ₹15.86 crore. However, operations were delayed due to pending regulatory approvals.
The helipad finally received clearance from the DGCA on August 7, 2025, paving the way for commercial operations.
With flights now operational, Shimla joins the growing list of cities in India where helicopter-based regional connectivity is being used to supplement conventional air and road networks.
Industry Response
Local hotel operators, tour planners and adventure tourism operators have welcomed the move, saying it will make Himachal more competitive as a year-round destination.
“Tourists coming from Delhi, Chandigarh and overseas often lose two days just travelling to Kinnaur or upper Kullu. Helicopter services will make these destinations viable for shorter holidays and luxury travel,” said a Shimla-based tour operator.
Looking Ahead
As Himachal continues to focus on sustainable tourism and infrastructure development, helicopter connectivity is expected to emerge as a vital pillar in improving access, safety and economic opportunities across the state’s difficult terrain.
Officials say more routes will be added in a phased manner once passenger response stabilises and operational feasibility is assessed.
With the launch of the Sanjauli helicopter hub, the state is now aiming to bridge the gap between its remote geography and modern travel expectations — opening up new possibilities for tourism, healthcare and disaster management.
