In a significant boost to air connectivity and the tourism sector in Ladakh, the onset of the new tourist season has witnessed a substantial increase in the number of daily flights operating to Leh from April 1, 2026.

According to the flight schedule for April 2, operations at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh, increased from eight flights (including two charter flights) to a total of 18 flights in a single day. These included two charter flights to Delhi and Chandigarh, along with regular scheduled services connecting Leh with major destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, Srinagar, and Chandigarh.

Additionally, two extra flights by Air India have been approved and are expected to commence operations shortly. This is set to further enhance connectivity and provide greater flexibility for both tourists and residents in planning their travel to and from Leh.

The development comes as a result of sustained efforts led by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena to improve connectivity with Ladakh. Earlier, a delegation of tourism stakeholders, including members of the All Ladakh Tour Operators Association (ALTOA), All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association (ALHGHA), and All Kargil Travel Trade Association (AKTTA), had met the Lieutenant Governor and sought increased flight frequency to boost tourist inflow.

It is pertinent to note that tourist arrivals in Ladakh had witnessed a sharp decline last year, adversely affecting the livelihoods of those dependent on tourism-related activities. The increase in flight operations is expected to play a crucial role in restoring tourist confidence and revitalising the local economy.

The enhanced flight frequency also assumes significance in view of upcoming major events, including the Great Exposition of the Holy Relics of Buddha in May and the first-ever Sindhu Maha Kumbh in June. These events are expected to attract a large number of domestic and international visitors.

Welcoming the development, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated the Administration’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure and connectivity in Ladakh. He highlighted that the new terminal building at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, which is nearing completion, will significantly enhance passenger handling capacity and provide a modern travel experience, thereby further boosting tourist footfall.

Reaffirming his vision, the Lieutenant Governor stated that continuous efforts are being made to position Ladakh as one of the country’s premier tourist destinations, with a focus on sustainable and well-planned development.