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In an eagerly anticipated development, preparations have been completed at the MBB Airport in Agartala for international air connectivity, signaling the imminent launch of flights between Agartala and Chittagong. Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury made the announcement during a session at the Assembly on Thursday.
With the project now in its final stages, the commencement of air services is expected to take place in the near future. The delay in initiating the service has been primarily attributed to immigration-related matters. However, Minister Chowdhury assured that the remaining issues are being resolved, and the launch is now just a matter of time.
To facilitate this international connection, the State Government has committed to providing a gap fund of Rs 15 crore to Spicejet Airlines. Out of this amount, Rs 3 crore 75 lakh has already been disbursed. Spicejet will be responsible for operating air services between Agartala and Chittagong, further strengthening the regional transportation network.
In response to queries about Kailashahar Airport, Minister Chowdhury mentioned that the historic airport, which remained operational until 1989 under Vayudut, is currently utilized as a helipad. Efforts to revive air services at Kailashahar have faced challenges, as five tender invitations under the UDAN Scheme have yielded no successful outcomes thus far.
In an encouraging development, a crucial meeting was held on April 24 between the Chief Minister and the Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ministry. As a result, Spirit Air and Alliance Air have expressed their commitment to operating flights from Kailashahar. Spirit Air will serve the Kailashahar-Agartala-Kailashahar route, while Alliance Air will connect Kailashahar with Kolkata and back.
The anticipated launch of international flights between Agartala and Chittagong will not only enhance regional connectivity but also open up new opportunities for trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Travelers can now eagerly look forward to the seamless air link connecting these two neighboring cities, fostering stronger ties and mutual growth.
