A scenic gateway to Sikkim ‘Pakyong Airport’ awaits revival
Perched at an altitude of over 4,600 feet and surrounded by the emerald slopes of the Eastern Himalayas, Pakyong Airport is one of the highest airports in India and among the most picturesque in the world. Located just 31 kilometres from Gangtok, its runway offers panoramic views of lush valleys and snow-capped peaks, making it a potential tourism magnet and a symbol of modern connectivity for Sikkim. Besides, its strategic location has made it a vital link for both residents and tourists, offering a faster, more convenient alternative to long road journeys from neighbouring states.
Since its inauguration in 2018, Pakyong Airport has been more than just an air transport hub. It has been a lifeline for residents, a draw for tourists, and a point of pride for the hill state. Visitors arriving here are treated to a rare spectacle, descending aircraft seemingly carving through clouds before touching down on a strip nestled amid steep Himalayan ridges. For travellers seeking an unforgettable start to their Sikkim journey, this airport offered exactly that.
However, this vital gateway has faced repeated operational disruptions, mostly due to weather challenges and aircraft limitations. The latest suspension of services since June 2024 has forced passengers to use airports in neighbouring states, adding hours to their journeys and dampening the tourism sector’s momentum.
In a bid to restore services, a high-level meeting was held in New Delhi under the chairmanship of Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol. The meeting, convened at Udaan Bhawan, was attended by Sikkim MP Indra Hang Subba, senior civil aviation officials, and representatives from SpiceJet, IndiGo, and Alliance Air.
Pakyong Airport Director Balasaheb Pote presented updates on its operational status and proposed infrastructure upgrades to ensure sustainable, all-season operations. The discussions addressed key challenges such as weather-related disruptions, the need for suitable aircraft deployment, and strategies for more reliable flight schedules.
MP Subba emphasised the airport’s strategic and emotional importance, saying, “Pakyong Airport is not just an infrastructure project, it is a lifeline for Sikkim. We must ensure that services resume at the earliest and in a sustainable manner.”
The Ministry of Civil Aviation assured full support in resolving operational issues, with airlines expressing willingness to work on restoring flights. If successful, the revival of Pakyong Airport will once again give tourists and locals alike a stunning and much faster entry into the heart of the Himalayas.