Karnataka’s Infrastructure Development Minister, M. B. Patil, has urged the Centre to add the Bengaluru–Shivamogga air route to the upcoming UDAN bidding process. This move aims to restore the suspended service due to financial losses, which is crucial for the region’s economic and social progress.
The Shivamogga Airport began operations in February 2023, with IndiGo offering flights between Shivamogga and Bengaluru. However, the service has been inactive for several months, causing inconvenience to travelers. Patil emphasized the significance of air connectivity between the two cities for the growth of various sectors in districts like Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, and others.
Highlighting the importance of the Bengaluru–Shivamogga route, Patil emphasized its role in supporting economic, agricultural, tourism, and industrial development in the region. He has reached out to Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu to intervene and facilitate the route’s inclusion in the UDAN bidding process with Viability Gap Funding support.
Patil also mentioned the ongoing progress in establishing night-landing facilities at Shivamogga Airport and the availability of necessary infrastructure. He urged the Union Government to consider the request positively and take prompt action to reinstate the air service for the benefit of the area.
The UDAN scheme, part of the Government of India’s Regional Connectivity Scheme, aims to enhance flight connectivity to underserved cities. By subsidizing airfares and providing Viability Gap Funding to airlines, the scheme ensures affordable air travel and connects previously unlinked regions, including remote and hilly areas.
