LEH, SEPT 29: The Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh has recommenced subsidized single-engine helicopter services across the region from today, aimed at strengthening air connectivity to remote and far-flung areas and easing travel for residents, tourists and patients requiring emergency medical support.
The services are being operated by M/s Pawan Hans Limited under a Wet Lease Agreement with the support of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India.
The resumption of helicopter operations is expected to provide a vital alternative mode of transportation to areas where road connectivity is difficult, particularly during challenging weather and terrain conditions.
The service will also facilitate faster movement of passengers to strategically and geographically remote destinations.
According to the notified schedule, the Leh–Kargil sector will have a flying time of around 50 minutes, with the subsidized fare fixed at ₹7,750 per passenger. The Leh–Padum service will take approximately 45 minutes and cost ₹6,975 per passenger.
On the shorter sectors, Leh–Lingshad, Leh–Dibling, Leh–Nyerak and Leh–Diskit will each have an estimated flying time of 30 minutes, with the subsidized fare fixed at ₹4,650 per passenger. The Leh–Turtuk route will have a flying time of around 40 minutes, with a fare of ₹6,190 per passenger.
The administration said the flights will be operated by experienced, instrument-rated and licensed crew, while prescribed airfield security arrangements and passenger screening procedures will remain in place.
The District Administrations have been directed to provide necessary logistical support, ensure operational readiness of designated helipads and nominate Liaison/Nodal Officers for smooth coordination and functioning of the helicopter services.
Deputy Commissioners have also been asked to ensure extensive publicity of the services through official social media platforms and print media so that residents and other prospective passengers are adequately informed about the available routes, fares and booking arrangements.
Passengers can book tickets online through the official Ladakh Helicopter Service portal at https://heliservice.ladakh.gov.in.
