A Right to Information Act disclosure reveals that out of seven airports opened in Uttar Pradesh since 2021, flights have ceased at six of them, with only Ayodhya airport still operational.
A recent Right to Information Act (RTI) disclosure has shed light on the status of newly opened airports in Uttar Pradesh. Since 2021, the Airports Authority of India reported that seven airports began commercial operations; however, as of now, regular flights have been suspended at six of those airports. This raises concerns about the sustainability and demand for air travel in the region, with only the Ayodhya airport continuing to operate scheduled flights. The situation calls into question the planning and strategic importance of these airports in enhancing connectivity and economic growth in Uttar Pradesh.
The situation in Kanpur presents a slightly different narrative, where commercial operations commenced due to the opening of a new civil enclave in 2023. Despite being home to an existing airport, Kanpur's recent developments point towards increased passenger traffic and a potential for growth in air travel. The success of this airport might serve as a case study for other newly opened airports in the state that have struggled to maintain operations, potentially driving regulatory and operational changes in those locations.
Overall, the findings from the RTI response highlight serious challenges faced by airport authorities in managing the sustainability of air travel infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh. As government initiatives to open new airports aim to improve transportation and stimulate local economies, the suspension of flights at most of the newly opened facilities raises questions about feasibility and the strategic planning involved in expanding aviation services in the region.
