Uttarakhand has strengthened its regional air connectivity with the launch of three new helicopter routes operated by Heritage Aviation. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami virtually inaugurated the services, which aim to enhance tourism, facilitate trade, and improve emergency response in the state. The new routes will connect Dehradun Airport to Naukuchiatal Helipad in Nainital, Haldwani Heliport to Garud Helipad in Bageshwar, and Dehradun Airport to Garud Helipad in Bageshwar. These services are expected to significantly reduce travel time, providing faster and more efficient transportation for residents and tourists while improving accessibility in the region’s mountainous terrain. Under the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, initiated by the central government, Uttarakhand is actively expanding its aviation infrastructure. The state is developing 18 heliports, with 12 already operational. The introduction of these helicopter routes aligns with the broader goal of enhancing air connectivity in remote areas. Heritage Aviation will operate these routes using a 7-seater helicopter, ensuring reliable and consistent service. In addition to facilitating passenger transport, these flights will serve as a crucial resource for emergency response and disaster management. With these new routes, travel time between Dehradun and Naukuchiatal will be reduced to just 50 minutes, while flights between Haldwani and Garud, as well as Dehradun and Garud, will provide efficient transport options. Heritage Aviation is the only private helicopter company in India offering daily services under the UDAN scheme. It currently operates flights from Haldwani to Champawat, Pithoragarh, and Munsiyari and plans to introduce additional routes from Dehradun to Tehri, Srinagar, and Gauchar in the near future. The expansion of air services is expected to further boost Uttarakhand’s tourism industry and local economy. News courtesy: Travelbiz Monitor