Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 28 January 2025
Andaman and Nicobar Islands is set to experience a significant boost in air connectivity, with several developments in the civil aviation sector slated to improve travel within the islands. Lt. Governor, on Republic Day 2025, announced many such developments.
One of the key highlights of his speech was the announcement of Fixed Wing Aircraft services to soon commence under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS-UDAN) in the Sri Vijaya Puram – Shibpur sector, offering a new avenue for inter-island air travel. This initiative is expected to ease movement between the islands, providing a much-needed transportation option for residents and tourists alike.
Further strengthening the region’s air infrastructure, the Lt. Governor shared that the security vetting of the terminal at Car Nicobar has already been completed. In addition, construction of the Civil Passenger Terminal Building at Campbell Bay Airport is expected to be completed by April 2025. These efforts will significantly enhance connectivity in the southern part of the archipelago.
In a bid to make travel even more seamless between remote islands, the Lt. Governor highlighted the successful demonstration of a Sea-Plane service carried out on November 17, 2024. This demonstration is a part of the plans to connect Sri Vijaya Puram with Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and Long Island via Sea-Plane. The bid process to finalize the agency responsible for operating these Sea-Planes is expected to conclude by March 2025, paving the way for regular services.
In addition to these advancements, the Andaman and Nicobar Administration’s efforts have resulted in the upgradation of the region’s helicopter fleet. Sikorsky helicopters, each with a 12-passenger capacity, have already reached Sri Vijaya Puram. These helicopters, which will serve regular flights, are currently awaiting the completion of necessary formalities before being put into operation.
With these strategic developments underway, 2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year for air travel in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, promising greater accessibility and convenience for both locals and visitors.