Gujarat Govt To Unveil New Civil Aviation Policy, BA News, BA

Gujarat govt is on the cusp of unveiling a civil aviation policy to improve regional connectivity within the state. The initiative aims to establish an efficient, cost-effective and reliable network of air services that seamlessly link the cities and towns of Gujarat. It is anticipated to provide an impetus to the state’s tourism industry.

“The state civil aviation department, in collaboration with other departments, has begun an extensive exercise to formulate a policy aimed at improving air travel between the cities and towns of Gujarat.

In addition to conducting an exhaustive study on the infrastructure facet, the govt is actively exploring a myriad of potential incentives that can be extended to airlines to motivate them to expand air connectivity throughout Gujarat,” a high-ranking govt official said.

Moreover, the feasibility of introducing helicopter services within the cities of Gujarat is being examined, with successful implementation models from other states being thoroughly studied, official sources revealed. At present, Gujarat lacks helicopter services connecting its various cities and towns.

“This pioneering approach to urban transportation has the potential to metamorphose commuting within the cities, presenting a swift and convenient alternative to traditional modes of transport,” the sources elaborated.

In a concerted effort to incentivise airlines and stimulate them to expand their operations within Gujarat, govt is diligently exploring a spectrum of potential incentives, the sources disclosed. “Govt will strive to create a more lucrative environment for carriers to establish new routes within Gujarat and augment the frequency of flights,” officials stated. A study of existing airports, airstrips and helipads in the state will be undertaken to aid the state govt in determining additional infrastructure facilities that will be required to expand air travel facilities, the sources said.

In 2023, the state govt had inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to set up 11 greenfield airports at Ankleshwar, Morbi, Rajpipla, Botad, Dwarka, Dhordo, Rajula, Dahod, Ambaji, Dholavira and Palitana.