Resumption of Indian Air Force Air Travel Facilities under Air maintenance aircraft sorties for residents of UT Ladakh Bringing Relief to Ladakh from October 26, 2023

Resumption of Indian Air Force Air Travel Facilities under Air maintenance aircraft sorties for residents of UT Ladakh Bringing Relief to Ladakh from October 26, 2023

Leh, October 23 – In a momentous development for the Ladakh region, the Ministry of Defence has granted approval for the resumption of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) IL services. This decision comes as a welcome relief following the temporary suspension of services due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is poised to significantly benefit the people of Ladakh, highlighted by Secretary of Aviation, Ravinder Kumar.

The resumption of IL services was made possible through the diligent efforts of the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, who effectively conveyed the region’s pressing need for these services to the Defence Minister.

In response to the increasing demand from patients, students, and the general public, IL services have become an essential means of connectivity, particularly when alternative options are limited.

This air service will now operate as a regular feature, providing services twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, commencing from October 26, 2023 under air maintenance sorties. Furthermore, it aims to expand its coverage to Kargil and Thoise, subject to the aircraft availability. The residents of Ladakh will be able to access this facility through the DC office Leh.

The meeting was chaired by Secretariat Civil Aviation Sh. Ravinder Kumar; attended by DC Leh, DC Kargil, ADC Leh, IAF Officers and others