The proposed shutdown of Air India’s Silchar service, originally started in 1955 under Indian Airlines, will severely impact over 65 lakh (6.5 million) people across Silchar, Karimganj, Hailakandi (Barak Valley), Dima Hasao, Tripura, Manipur, and parts of Mizoram. Silchar Airport (IXS) currently handles a daily Air India flight, largely used by repeat passengers including students, medical patients, business travelers, and government employees. This service directly employs 15 staff under Tata AI payroll, and an entire ground handling agency relies solely on Air India operations at Silchar. The service plays a vital role in maintaining regional connectivity, affordability, and employment.

         Silchar already suffers from limited air connectivity, and the removal of Air India will create a monopoly for IndiGo, the only other major operator. This will result in excessive airfare hikes and reduced competition, as observed when Air India scaled back its services in 2024—fares on the Silchar–Kolkata route surged by 30%–50%. On average, 210–220 passengers use the Air India service daily (both directions), and the flight operates with 80% to 90% occupancy, proving that the route is commercially viable. Additionally, essential cargo services used by hospitals, traders, and farmers will be disrupted, and job losses are imminent. The resulting gap in connectivity will disproportionately affect remote and underserved communities who have no affordable travel alternatives.

There is no official assurance that Silchar’s Air India service will continue or be transitioned to Air India Express. Once this vital service is withdrawn, the region may lose it permanently. The Barak Valley and adjoining states already struggle with poor road and rail infrastructure, making air travel a necessity, not a luxury. Losing this service will increase regional isolation, worsen medical and educational access, and expose citizens to unchecked private airline pricing. We urgently request the intervention of the Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu to ensure uninterrupted Air India operations at Silchar, or transition the route smoothly to Air India Express, keeping fares regulated and service stable. Kindly Sign this petition urgently to save Air India Service from shutting down its operation from Barak Valley