Amritsar is to become India’s second Easy Connect (EC) international aviation hub, officials said, with the initiative centred on enabling seamless transits via domestic flights at Amritsar Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (Amritsar airport). The EC programme is designed to allow passengers arriving on domestic services to transfer directly to international flights without lengthy procedures. The designation follows policy moves to position selected airports as transit nodes to enhance national and regional connectivity. The scheme aligns with broader aviation policy to increase transit capacity and international linkages.

Under the scheme, passengers will benefit from single baggage check-in and simplified transfer procedures so luggage moves through to the final international destination. Gate and scheduling coordination between domestic and international operators will be strengthened to reduce connection times and minimise operational delays. The arrangement is intended to make cross-border journeys more convenient for leisure and business travellers. Operational changes are designed to shorten wait times at check-in and transfer halls for smoother passenger flow.

Implementation will require changes to ground handling, security screening, immigration facilitation and customs processing so transfers can be conducted efficiently within the airport precinct. Airport infrastructure and passenger services will be upgraded where necessary to support the new transfer flows and to accommodate increased transfer passenger volumes. Authorities expect enhanced route economics for carriers and improved utilisation of slot capacity at the airport. Staff training and investment in information technology will support real time baggage tracking and passenger guidance.

Stakeholders including the airport operator, airlines and civil aviation regulator will coordinate on operational protocols, slot management and passenger information systems to ensure smooth roll-out. The initiative is also aimed at supporting regional tourism and trade by reducing travel friction and offering new onward connections. Officials indicated that further logistical details and timelines will be communicated as work progresses. Regulators will monitor outcomes and refine protocols while local exporters can benefit from faster connectivity for time-sensitive cargo.