CM Sukhu launches Shimla-Rampur helicopter service

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State government approves its share under the VGF scheme

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched a helicopter service between Sanjauli Heliport in Shimla and Rampur, with onward connectivity to Reckong Peo, to strengthen air connectivity and promote tourism in the state.

Sukhu flagged off the helicopter on Wednesday. The service will operate three days a week, on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, providing air travel facilities to residents of Rampur and surrounding areas.

Departures from Sanjauli are scheduled for 9.55 am, with arrival in Rampur at 10.30 am. The onward flight from Rampur to Reckong Peo will depart at 10.50 am and arrive at 11.25 am.

The chief minister said the state government aimed to connect remote areas through air services to improve transport facilities and encourage tourism. He said local residents had raised concerns about the lack of flights from Rampur despite the heliport being ready during his visit to the area.

Following the request, Sukhu took up the matter with the Union Civil Aviation Minister. He said the state government approved its share under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) arrangement, helping pave the way for regular helicopter operations.

Sukhu said the government was also working to extend air connectivity to Hamirpur, Chamba and Palampur. Discussions were under way, and efforts were being made to introduce these services within the next three to four months.

He said helicopter services could reduce travel difficulties caused by Himachal Pradesh’s geographical conditions, improve access to tourist destinations and help transport patients to hospitals during emergencies.

The chief minister also highlighted plans to expand Kangra Airport at Gaggal. He said the state government had initiated land acquisition using Rs 2,400 crore from its resources and had made payments towards the process. The expansion could facilitate operations by larger aircraft and support tourism.

Regarding Shimla’s air connectivity, Sukhu said the government was searching for suitable land to construct a heliport but had not yet identified a site meeting the requirements. Alternative arrangements were also being considered.