John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, June 19: The Shibpur Civil Air Terminus, inside Naval Airbase, in Diglipur is making substantial progress, with a target date set for the commencement of operations by July 2023.
Talking to Andaman Sheekha Daily an officer of Civil Aviation informed that the major construction work on the passenger terminal building and runway has already been completed, while some technical aspects such as communication, navigational systems, staff posting, and logistical work are still underway. Additionally, the process of finalizing agreements between the Defence, the Airport Authority of India, and the local administration is in progress.
He said that once the necessary approvals are obtained, an airline is prepared to begin operations. A 19-seater fixed-wing aircraft will operate between Port Blair and Diglipur Island, with “Big Charter” company selected as the designated private operator for this service in the sector.
He added that simultaneously, work is also ongoing to extend the runways at Car Nicobar and Campbell Bay airports on Great Nicobar Island. The terminal work at Car Nicobar airport has already been completed, and operations are likely to commence from December this year. The terminal at Campbell Bay airport is scheduled for completion by April 2024.
The Government of India has earlier given its approval to commission Naval Air Station, Shibpur as a full-fledged air station for domestic traffic under the Regional Connect Scheme (RCS-UDAN). While flight services are yet to commence, the runway is being extended to a length of 12,000 feet, enabling day and night operations. The introduction of flight services between Port Blair and the Shibpur airport in Diglipur will greatly boost North Andaman tourism and enhance passenger connectivity. Travel between Port Blair and Diglipur can be accomplished within one hour, making it easier to handle medical emergencies as well.
