The IndiGo Airlines has emerged as the frontrunner in providing flight services between Delhi and Jharsuguda as its slot application for air operations in this sector has been approved.

Director of Jharsuguda Airport Sandeep Tiwari confirmed the approval of IndiGo's slot application, disclosing that flights are slated to commence from May 1. However, Tiwari emphasized that the commencement date hinges on the initiation of bookings, details of which are yet to be disclosed. A formal announcement is expected imminently.

IndiGo's flight schedule between Delhi and Jharsuguda encompasses daily operations, with flights departing from Delhi and arriving at Jharsuguda Airport at 4:35 pm. The return journey from Jharsuguda to Delhi is set to take off at 5 pm, offering swift connectivity between the two cities.

The initiation of IndiGo's services comes in the wake of SpiceJet's withdrawal from the Delhi-Jharsuguda sector on March 31, resulting in a temporary halt in flight operations between the two destinations. Despite efforts to secure an alternative flight service during this interim period, the request to continue SpiceJet's operations was rebuffed by the concerned authorities.

Moreover, Jharsuguda Airport is poised for significant enhancements to its passenger handling capacity during peak hours. Commencing from March 11, ongoing construction endeavours aim to double the airport's peak hour capacity, accommodating up to 540 passengers simultaneously, compared to the current capacity of 270.

Additionally, expansion works to add four more bays to the existing two are nearing completion, with clearance anticipated by the end of this month.

Director Tiwari also disclosed ongoing endeavours to bolster air services in other key sectors, including Hyderabad and Mumbai. These initiatives underscore a concerted effort to bolster regional connectivity and streamline air travel accessibility for passengers across various routes.