PM Modi to virtually inaugurate Halwara Airport on July 27; flight ops remain unclear

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate the much-delayed Halwara Airport on July 27, Punjab Industries and Commerce Minister Sanjeev Arora announced on Friday.

Preparations are being finalised in coordination with the Airports Authority of India and the local administration.

However, the start of flight operations remains uncertain, as several clearances are still pending. A senior official at Halwara, requesting anonymity, confirmed that no specific date for the commencement of flights has been decided.

“Security vetting has been done and an NOC is awaited. Besides, the runway has to be completed by the Air Force authorities... Once that is done, airlines will begin test flights,” the official said, adding that operations are expected to start soon.

The announcement has sparked interest among local residents and the business community, particularly across social media, as they await updates on flight schedules and routes.

After missing over a dozen deadlines, the Rs 50-crore project is now close to completion. Residents believe the airport will finally become operational, marking a long-awaited development for Ludhiana and the surrounding region. The project has been under development for over three years.

“The Halwara International Airport will not only benefit industrialists from Ludhiana but also serve the entire state and neighbouring areas,” said Rahul Ahuja, former chairman of CII.

He added that finishing touches are being given, and the Airport Authority of India will soon issue the airport code.

Air India is expected to announce the schedule for flights post-inauguration.