LEH, AUGUST 23: Civilian flight operations are set to begin at Thoise Airport in Nubra Valley, while preparations are also underway to assess the readiness of Kargil Airport for commercial flights, in a move aimed at improving air connectivity to Ladakh’s strategically important border regions.
The developments were discussed at a meeting chaired by Ladakh Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena in New Delhi with officials from the Ministry of Defence, Indian Air Force, Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Ladakh Administration.
The administration is targeting the commencement of civil operations from Thoise by December, using the existing chartered flight terminal after necessary refurbishment. At Kargil, a joint inspection has been scheduled for September 1 to assess whether the airport is ready for civilian operations.
The meeting focused on resolving infrastructure, regulatory and operational issues required to make the two airports available for commercial aviation.
At Thoise, the Indian Air Force has approved the allotment of five acres of land for construction of a new civil terminal in Nubra. Meanwhile, recarpeting of the runway is underway and is expected to be completed by November.
For immediate commencement of civilian flights, Saxena directed the AAI to submit the required infrastructure specifications for the existing chartered terminal. The Ladakh administration will then undertake the necessary refurbishment through the Public Works Department.
Kargil readiness to be assessed
At Kargil Airport, the Indian Air Force, AAI and Ministry of Civil Aviation will conduct a joint inspection on September 1 in the presence of the Lieutenant Governor.
The survey will examine existing infrastructure and other operational requirements before determining the next course of action for launching civilian flight services.
Officials said the proposed air connectivity would make travel easier for residents of Nubra and improve access for tourists visiting destinations such as Turtuk, Siachen Base Camp, Kargil and Drass.
The administration expects the expansion of civilian aviation to unlock the tourism potential of Ladakh’s border areas while supporting local businesses and economic activity.
Saxena directed all concerned agencies to work in coordination and complete the remaining infrastructure, regulatory and operational formalities on a time-bound basis.
The move is expected to provide a significant connectivity boost to some of Ladakh’s remote and strategically important areas, which currently face limited transport options.
