UDHAMPUR, JAN 22, 2026: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced today that civilian flight operations from Udhampur are set to begin within the next six to seven months. Presiding over a high-level review meeting, the Minister revealed that an interim terminal building will be established within the existing Air Force Station (AFS) Udhampur to fast-track regional connectivity. This initiative, driven by close coordination between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI), aims to transform Udhampur into a multimodal transport hub, offering residents and travelers seamless access to Delhi and the rest of the country via air, rail, and road.
The development marks a significant milestone for the Chenab region, which Dr. Singh noted has seen unprecedented growth and focused infrastructure investment since 2014. Beyond the interim terminal, the government is actively pursuing the acquisition of additional land—with the support of the Omar Abdullah-led UT administration—to eventually construct a full-fledged, independent airport. The Minister emphasized that this boost in air connectivity will act as a catalyst for socio-economic growth across four districts, complementing similar aviation projects currently underway in Kishtwar under the UDAAN scheme.
Dr. Jitendra Singh credited the Prime Minister’s vision for inclusive development for making these “milestone” decisions possible. He highlighted that Udhampur is rapidly evolving into a central connectivity node, featuring an upgraded “Amrit” Railway Station and upcoming express corridors. By integrating air travel into this network, the government intends to provide remote and underserved populations with diverse travel options, ultimately bridging the gap between the Chenab belt and India’s major metropolitan centers.
