UKHRUL: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, along with Lok Sabha MP A Bimol Akoijam flagged off the commencement of direct flights of SpiceJet Airlines services from Imphal to Guwahati, Kolkata and Mumbai at Imphal Airport on Tuesday. This initiative marks a significant step towards improving air connectivity in the state and the northeast region.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat, underscoring its pivotal role in achieving Viksit Manipur. He noted that during these difficult times, air travel has become the preferred mode of transport for travelling outside the state. He directed the airline company to review the airfares ensuring affordability.
As part of the launching event, the chief minister handed over the boarding pass to the first traveller of the SpiceJet service to Guwahati.
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Lok Sabha MP Bimol Akoijam, who serves as the chairman of the Aerodrome Advisory Committee, emphasised the importance of SpiceJet’s newly launched service for Manipur. He noted that its introduction is particularly timely, as it addresses the pressing needs of the state’s residents. Akoijam also voiced optimism that the service would help prevent excessively high airfares, a major issue that continues to trouble the public.
Brijendar Singh, Deputy General Manager for SpiceJet’s East and Northeast region, announced the introduction of a new air service from Imphal. This latest addition will provide travellers with direct flights to Guwahati and Kolkata, enhancing regional connectivity. For those flying from Mumbai to Imphal, the airline will implement a short stopover in Kolkata. Passengers, however, can remain on board, as there will be no aircraft change required—making the trip more convenient and comfortable.
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Imphal Airport Director Chipemmi Keishing hailed the commencement of SpiceJet’s new service as a milestone achievement for Manipur, stating that it fulfils a deep-rooted demand of the local community. Keishing emphasised that this addition will not only strengthen regional connectivity but also expand travel options and foster greater competition among airlines, leading to more affordable fares.
Reflecting on last winter’s flight schedule, Keishing pointed out that a reduction in services to Guwahati and Kolkata had pushed airfares above Rs 10,000. However, with SpiceJet’s entry and the resulting boost in competition, ticket prices have sharply declined—now averaging around Rs 4,000 for Guwahati and Rs 6,000 for Kolkata—offering much-needed financial relief to travellers.
The programme was also attended by Thanga AC MLA Tongbram Robindro Singh, Chingai AC MLA Khashim Vashum, Additional Chief Secretary Anurag Bajpai, Transport Director Khumanthem Diana, Imphal West Superintendent of Police Ksh Shivakanta Singh, officials of Airport Authority of India, among others.
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