DARJEELING, 14th February 2025 — In a decisive move to transform regional travel infrastructure, Darjeeling Member of Parliament and BJP National Spokesperson Raju Bista has intensified efforts to improve air connectivity across the Darjeeling-Kalimpong corridor, citing tourism growth and emergency readiness as critical priorities. During a high-level meeting with Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, Bista outlined actionable proposals, including daily helicopter services and accelerated airport upgrades, which have now secured ministerial backing.
Push for Helicopter Services, Airport Expansion
Bista’s discussions with Naidu centered on two key initiatives: the expansion of Bagdogra Airport—a gateway to the Eastern Himalayas—and the introduction of daily helicopter flights connecting Bagdogra to Darjeeling, Mirik, Bijanbari, and Kalimpong. The proposed routes aim to bridge gaps in transportation access, particularly for remote communities reliant on winding mountain roads prone to disruptions during monsoons.
“Daily helicopter services will not only attract tourists seeking premium travel experiences but also unlock economic opportunities in rural pockets,” Bista emphasized. He highlighted Darjeeling’s status as a premier Himalayan destination, drawing over 3.5 million visitors annually pre-pandemic, yet hampered by logistical bottlenecks. The MP stressed that air connectivity would position the region to capture higher-spending travelers while providing locals with faster medical evacuations and disaster response options.
Ministerial Assurance Sparks Momentum
The Civil Aviation Ministry has pledged immediate steps to evaluate the proposals. Naidu confirmed directives to relevant agencies to fast-track feasibility studies for the helicopter network and prioritize Bagdogra Airport’s expansion, which includes extending runways and upgrading terminals to handle rising passenger traffic.
Industry analysts note that improved air links could replicate the success of Sikkim’s Pakyong Airport, which saw tourist footfall rise by 40% within two years of operationalizing regional flights. For Darjeeling, where tourism contributes 60% of the local GDP, streamlined connectivity is seen as a catalyst for hotel, transport, and handicraft sectors.
Community Impact and Long-Term Vision
Bista underscored the humanitarian angle, noting that communities in Kalimpong and Bijanbari currently face 6-8 hour road journeys to reach Bagdogra for medical emergencies or flights. “Helicopter services will save lives and livelihoods,” he stated, referencing recent landslide-related tragedies where delayed evacuations exacerbated casualties.
The MP reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the projects align with broader goals of equitable development for Darjeeling, Terai, and Dooars. “This isn’t just about tourism revenue—it’s about integrating isolated areas into the economic mainstream and securing a resilient future,” he added.
With feasibility assessments underway, stakeholders anticipate formalizing routes and operators by early 2025. Local tourism boards have already begun strategizing premium travel packages, while healthcare providers welcome the prospect of reduced emergency response times.
As Darjeeling eyes post-pandemic recovery, Bista’s push for air connectivity marks a pivotal step toward reshaping the region’s socio-economic landscape, balancing visitor demand with community welfare. The initiatives, if implemented, could set a benchmark for mountainous regions nationwide seeking to harness tourism without compromising local needs.