In a major boost for connectivity across Kumaon, helicopter services commenced on Wednesday linking Pithoragarh to Munsiyari and Haldwani to Almora, offering faster travel options for residents and tourists in difficult terrain.
Our correspondent reports that the new routes are being operated under a regional connectivity scheme by a private aviation operator. The Pithoragarh–Munsiyari route and Haldwani–Almora service are now available daily, reducing travel time along mountainous paths that are often slow and treacherous by road.
The operator has set the fare at around ₹2,500 per person one way, making it a cost-effective option for many passengers. Booking platforms have already begun offering seats, and local demand is expected to surge in coming days as word spreads in the region.
Our correspondent adds that the helicopter service is expected to benefit not just tourists but also locals—students, traders, medical cases and government officials—who frequently face long delays or risks on mountainous roads. The move is seen as part of the state’s push to improve air connectivity to remote areas.
Haldwani and Pithoragarh act as key hubs in Kumaon, and linking them to tourist and hill destinations like Almora and Munsiyari via air is likely to expand tourism opportunities. Officials anticipate that easier access will encourage more visitors during the shoulder season, aiding the local economy.
Sources within the aviation department said that helipads in Munsiyari and Almora have been readied with support infrastructure, and safety protocols have been cleared by the civil aviation authority. Pilots familiar with mountain flying will operate these services initially.
An announcement from the operator emphasised that the flights would operate with weather contingency built in—mountain routes are especially susceptible to sudden changes. On days with adverse conditions, cancellations may occur, and passengers have been advised to confirm flights soon before departure.
Local representatives and tourism bodies welcomed the launch, calling it a game changer for remote connectivity. They said that shorter travel times would help emergency response, medical transport and increase footfall in regions that hitherto remained off the beaten path.
Some residents noted that while air services existed before in varied sectors, linking Pithoragarh through Munsiyari and Haldwani to Almora marks a new chapter in intra-Kumaon aviation. They hope similar services will expand further, perhaps connecting other hill towns in the future.
Officials monitoring the rollout said passenger feedback will be crucial in determining whether the service remains sustainable. Aircraft will be rotated and schedules may be adjusted based on demand patterns. Subsidies or incentives from the state may also be explored to support lower fares where needed.
As the inaugural day flights took off smoothly, authorities expressed confidence that the new heli routes would greatly improve life and connectivity in Uttarakhand’s hilly regions—combining speed, safety and accessibility for communities long challenged by geographic constraints.
