Three new flights are likely to be introduced to Bangalore, Tirupati, and Delhi from Visakhapatnam in the near future.
The Tatas, who have entered into a joint venture with AirAsia, have responded favourably to our plea for introduction of these flights, according to Visakhapatnam Air Traveller’s Association (VATA) president Ch. Ramakotaiah.
Addressing a media conference here on Wednesday, he said none of the airline operators from Visakhapatnam had ever lost on their operations from the city. The only exception was the SpiceJet flight to Tirupati, which withdrew its service after operating for sometime due to poor patronage.
The association had appealed to the Tourism Department to introduce a package, in association with the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), for the benefit of pilgrims visiting Tirumala, on the lines of the package extended to the Hyderabad-Tirupati flight. The matter would be pursued with the TTD Executive Officer as the demand for Tirupati from Vizag had increased.
Recalling the efforts of VATA towards development of the airport, Mr. Ramakotaiah said that SilkAir flight to Singapore was getting very good response. The first direct international flight from Visakhapatnam was also contributing to the promotion of tourism. Cargo exports to 90 international destinations were also being routed through the Changi airport in Singapore.
Though a general declining trend was observed in domestic travel from various airports in India, including Hyderabad airport, Visakhapatnam airport was an exception. The number of passengers handled by Visakhapatnam airport had crossed 10 lakh and it rightfully got the “Best Airport” award in the Rest of India category (among Tier-2 cities).
Ugadi fete
Mr. Ramakotaiah said that VATA would organise Ugadi celebrations at the YVS Murthy Auditorium located on Andhra University College of Engineering (AUCE) campus.
‘Panchanga Sravanam’ and ‘Ashtavadhanam’ would be conducted.
