In a major boost to Punjab’s air connectivity, Union Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu has announced that flight bookings for Ludhiana’s Halwara Airport will begin in April. The long-awaited development is set to mark the operational launch of the airport, bringing relief to residents and businesses in the region.
According to the minister, all necessary approvals and clearances have been secured, paving the way for commercial flight operations to commence soon.
First flights likely to take off in May
Officials have indicated that the first commercial flights from Halwara International Airport are expected to begin between mid-May, likely around May 10–15.
Initially, two daily flights connecting Ludhiana to Delhi will be operated, offering both morning and afternoon options for passengers. These flights are expected to be operated using Airbus A320 aircraft, providing improved comfort and capacity for travelers.
Major relief for Ludhiana residents and industries
The launch of Halwara Airport is being seen as a gamechanger for Ludhiana, often referred to as Punjab’s industrial hub. For years, residents and business travelers had to depend on airports in Chandigarh, Amritsar, or Delhi for air travel.
With direct connectivity from Halwara, travel time will be significantly reduced, making it easier for professionals, students, and exporters to commute. Industry leaders believe that the airport will improve logistics, boost exports, and attract more investment to the region.
Air India to operate initial flights
Reports suggest that Air India will operate the initial flights between Halwara and Delhi. Bookings are expected to open in the first week of April, in line with aviation norms that require ticket sales to begin weeks before flight operations.
The move is expected to provide seamless connectivity to international destinations via Delhi, benefiting both business travelers and the Punjabi diaspora.
Long-awaited project finally becoming reality
The Halwara Airport project has been in the works for several years and was officially inaugurated earlier in 2026. Built on the site of an Indian Air Force base, the airport is designed to handle aircraft like Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, making it capable of handling significant passenger traffic.
Its operationalisation marks the end of a long wait for Ludhiana, which has struggled with limited air connectivity despite being a major economic center.
Boost to regional economy and connectivity
Experts believe that the airport will not only improve travel convenience but also stimulate economic growth in Punjab. Enhanced connectivity is expected to benefit sectors like manufacturing, textiles, and exports, which are dominant in Ludhiana.
Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu described the development as a “long-awaited moment” for Punjab and credited the central government’s focus on infrastructure for making it possible.
A new chapter for Punjab aviation
With bookings set to begin in April and flights scheduled for May, Halwara Airport is poised to transform air travel in central Punjab. The project is expected to reduce dependency on distant airports and provide a modern aviation hub for the region.
As operations begin, residents and businesses alike are looking forward to the convenience and opportunities that this long-awaited airport will bring.