Itanagar, Sept 4, 2025: The Government of Sikkim strongly advocated for the revival of Pakyong Airport during the 3rd North East Aviation Summit 2025 held in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting the critical role of air connectivity in supporting tourism, economic development and regional integration in the Himalayan state.
The summit was chaired by Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Rammohan Naidu and hosted by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu. The high-level gathering brought together Chief Ministers, Civil Aviation Ministers and senior officials from across the North Eastern region, along with representatives from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), to discuss strategies for strengthening aviation infrastructure and connectivity in the Northeast.
The Sikkim delegation was led by Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Shri Tshering Thendup Bhutia and included Additional Chief Secretary Shri C.S. Rao, Additional Director Shri Tenzing Gelay and Deputy Director Shri Sonam Rinchen. During the discussions, the delegation stressed the urgent need to restore flight operations at Pakyong Airport, which has remained non-functional for the past two years.
Officials from Sikkim pointed out that the suspension of commercial flights has affected connectivity and posed challenges for the state’s tourism-driven economy. They emphasized that the resumption of air services is essential not only for tourists but also for residents, businesses and investors who rely on efficient transportation links with the rest of the country.
Responding to the concerns raised by the delegation, Union Civil Aviation Minister Shri Rammohan Naidu assured the state government of the Centre’s full support. During an interactive session, he announced that a Bombardier Q400 aircraft would be made available to facilitate the restart of flight operations at Pakyong Airport. The minister also confirmed that rent charges for airport equipment previously used at the facility would be waived, providing financial relief and making the resumption of services more viable.
As part of its long-term vision, the Sikkim government presented a phased development plan for the airport. While immediate efforts will focus on restoring temporary air connectivity, the state is also pursuing a major infrastructure expansion project. The proposal includes extending the airport’s existing 1.75-kilometre runway to 2.75 kilometres, a move that would enable larger aircraft such as Airbus and Boeing models to operate from Pakyong.
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State officials noted that the runway expansion would significantly improve passenger capacity, increase flight frequency and enhance Sikkim’s accessibility for domestic and international visitors. The project is also expected to stimulate tourism, trade and investment while creating new employment opportunities in the region.
Expressing optimism after the summit, the Sikkim government reiterated its commitment to improving air connectivity and strengthening the state’s aviation infrastructure. Officials stated that continued collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation would help pave the way for the long-awaited revival of Pakyong Airport and unlock new opportunities for economic growth and tourism development in the state.
