Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 20 May 2025
In a significant move to strengthen inter-island connectivity, the Union Territory Administration of Andaman and Nicobar Islands has announced an increase in the frequency of helicopter services across the archipelago. The revised operational schedule, aimed at improving accessibility to remote islands, will come into effect from May 22, 2025.
Since its inception in 2003, the helicopter service operated by Pawan Hans Ltd. has served as a crucial lifeline for residents of the islands, ensuring year-round access to distant and otherwise hard-to-reach areas. The service has been especially vital during medical emergencies and evacuation operations.
Responding to growing public demand for safe and dependable air travel, the Administration has revamped the helicopter schedule to significantly improve coverage across the islands. According to the revised plan:
– Campbell Bay via Car Nicobar will now be connected six days a week
– Nancowry Group of Islands via Car Nicobar – six days a week
– Direct sorties to Car Nicobar – six days a week
– Hut Bay – six sorties per week
– Swaraj Dweep & Shaheed Dweep – three sorties per week
– Rangat – three trips per week
– Mayabunder and Diglipur – six sorties per week
In addition to the helicopter service, the Indian Air Force’s Dornier aircraft will operate twice a week to Campbell Bay via Car Nicobar, specifically on Mondays and Fridays.
The enhanced schedule is expected to not only improve emergency response capabilities but also catalyze socio-economic development across the islands. The Administration reiterated its commitment to ensuring last-mile air connectivity and maintaining a safe, efficient, and reliable transport system for the islanders. (Story Based on PR)