Ayodhya Airport sees flight decline to 10-12 daily, just months after Ram Mandir inauguration

The Maharishi Valmiki International Airport in Ayodhya, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023 at a substantial investment of Rs 1,450 crore, is facing a notable decline in flight operations just months after its much-anticipated launch. Initially, following the inauguration of the Ram Mandir on January 22, the airport saw a surge in travel demand, with as many as 22 flights operating daily from various cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Varanasi. However, the current operational capacity has fallen to approximately 10 to 12 flights per day, with several direct routes being suspended, including connections from major cities like Kolkata and Ahmedabad.

Despite the Uttar Pradesh government claiming that around 11 crore visitors flocked to Ayodhya in the first six months of 2024, tourism experts suggest that the majority of these pilgrims are traveling by road rather than air. The airport's 6,500 square meter terminal often remains underutilized, with peak times showing only a fraction of its capacity in use. While airlines such as Air India, Vistara, Indigo, and Aakash Air continue to operate, SpiceJet has suspended its services at the airport, further contributing to the overall decline in air traffic.

Several factors have contributed to this decrease in air travel to Ayodhya. One major issue is the limited availability of quality accommodations, which deters wealthier tourists and pilgrims who typically prefer to fly. Currently, the region lacks sufficient high-end hotels, making it less appealing for affluent visitors. Additionally, the Ram Mandir, while partially open, is still under construction, which may reduce the allure for potential travelers. Many pilgrims are opting for road travel from nearby cities such as Lucknow, located about two and a half hours away by car, instead of utilizing air travel.

In light of the ongoing decline, officials from the Uttar Pradesh tourism department remain hopeful that the upcoming winter months will see an increase in tourist arrivals. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is promoting various cultural events, including the Dipotsav, aimed at attracting both domestic and international tourists to Ayodhya. Furthermore, with the Mahakumbh festival scheduled to take place in Prayagraj early next year, local officials anticipate that visitors attending this significant religious event may also take the opportunity to visit the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, potentially revitalizing air travel to the region.