Srinagar

The Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA) has called on the Indian government to waive the User Development Fee (UDF) and Aviation Security Fee (ASF) for one year at Srinagar Airport, seeking to rejuvenate air traffic to and from Kashmir, which has suffered a significant decline following the Pahalgam attack. The airline industry body, which includes major carriers such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, argues that financial incentives, along with ongoing security measures, are essential to restoring tourism and passenger demand to the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the inauguration of critical infrastructure projects worth Rs. 46,000 crore in Jammu and Kashmir on June 6, a development poised to reshape the region's connectivity and economic landscape. Central to these projects is the Udhampur-Baramulla-Srinagar Rail Link (USBRL), which promises all-weather access and enhanced transportation efficiency. The launch of Vande Bharat trains between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar is expected to invigorate spiritual tourism and generate substantial employment opportunities.

SpiceJet is set to resume its Haj flight operations from Srinagar starting May 14, 2025, following the recent reopening of airports in Jammu and Kashmir. The airline will operate two services to Medina, utilizing wide-body Airbus A340 aircraft. With plans to facilitate the travel of approximately 15,500 Haj pilgrims, SpiceJet’s move is part of its broader strategy to enhance its footprint in regional and international travel. The airline has also resumed scheduled operations to Srinagar, further stabilizing its network after the disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions.

In the aftermath of a tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives on Tuesday, Srinagar’s air travel system has been under intense scrutiny. Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu assured the public that airfares for Srinagar flights are being closely monitored to prevent unjustified price surges. The government also announced additional flights to facilitate the swift departure of tourists seeking to return home. The efforts include the provision of extra amenities at Srinagar airport to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers.