Flight bookings from Halwara begins, Industry sees big boost ahead

April 1, 2026

Ludhiana, April 1: With bookings for flights from Halwara Airport now open and operations set to commence from May 15, leading industrialists have welcomed the development, crediting the persistent efforts of Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora for making the long-awaited project a reality.

Rajesh Aggarwal, CMD of TRB Group, who is scheduled to travel on the inaugural flight, said the airport’s operationalisation will significantly enhance business prospects in the region. He noted that improved air connectivity will make Ludhiana more accessible to the clients. “This is a historic moment for the industry. Faster connectivity will not only save time but also improve efficiency in business operations. It will open new avenues for trade, investment and collaboration,” he added, expressing optimism that Halwara Airport will soon match the scale and functionality of established airports like Amritsar and Mohali.

Eminent industrialist and Padma Shri awardee Onkar Singh Pahwa, CMD, Avon Cycles also lauded the move, stating that the airport will provide a major boost to the industrial sector. He pointed out that investors and clients often hesitated to visit Ludhiana due to long travel hours. “With direct flights, travel time will reduce drastically, making the city more attractive for business engagements and contributing to the overall growth of Punjab’s economy,” he said.

SC Ralhan, President of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), echoed similar sentiments, saying he will plan to travel to Delhi via Halwara flights.

He highlighted that improved connectivity will benefit multiple industries, including bicycles, hand tools and garments. He further emphasised the need to introduce cargo export services from the airport to maximise its potential and support exporters.

The schedule includes two daily flights operated with a 180-seater Airbus A320 aircraft. The morning flight will depart at 5.55 am and the afternoon one at 12.55 pm. The flight duration will be around an hour and 10 minutes.