Sri Vijaya Puram, February 19: A significant meeting between local travel stakeholders and Mr. Rahul Bose, Associate Manager, Air India, Kolkata, was held today at Hotel Mansha Regency to deliberate on the future of regional air connectivity and tourism development in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The meeting brought together representatives from the travel and tourism sector to discuss key issues affecting air travel, fare structures, and expansion of services to better serve island residents and promote tourism growth.
Participants jointly explored plans to promote “Monsoon Tourism” during the off-season (rainy season). The initiative aims to boost tourist inflow during traditionally lean months by highlighting the unique charm of the islands during the monsoon period.
A proposal was put forward to maintain affordable budget fares across all seasons. Stakeholders emphasized that air travel is the primary mode of transportation for island residents, and reasonable fare structures would not only benefit locals but also significantly enhance tourism prospects.
Discussions included proposals for operating additional flights during the upcoming vacation season to meet anticipated demand. The restoration of previously withdrawn routes was also raised to improve connectivity and passenger convenience.
A formal proposal for dedicated charter flight operations was submitted, aimed at supporting group travel, special tourism segments, and high-demand periods.
The program was coordinated by Ms. Sunita Sarkar. The meeting commenced with Mr. Anoop Kumar, Director of Nautika Cruises, welcoming Mr. Rahul Bose with a bouquet. The session concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Shri Hemant Kumar Dhingra, marking what participants described as a constructive and forward-looking engagement for strengthening the islands’ travel and aviation sector.
The meeting is being viewed as a positive step toward enhancing connectivity, supporting the local travel trade, and ensuring sustainable tourism development in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
