IAF Takes Charge of Chinyalisaur and Gauchar Airstrips; Boosts Uttarakhand's Air Connectivity and Defence Preparedness

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to oversee operations at the Chinyalisaur airstrip in Uttarkashi and the Gauchar airstrip in Chamoli districts in Uttarakhand, marking a significant move to enhance both civilian access and military readiness. Concurrently, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) will manage the Pithoragarh airport, which is earmarked for a substantial ₹450 crore expansion.
This operational shift has received in-principle approval from the state government as part of efforts to improve air connectivity in border districts. Officials have indicated that the initiative aims to address both local travel needs and strategic military requirements.
An impending Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Uttarakhand government and the AAI will outline the management framework for the Pithoragarh airport. Additionally, plans are underway to build a one-kilometer airstrip at Gunji near the Adi Kailash region, utilizing technical support from the Air Force.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the importance of this initiative, highlighting the dual benefits of expanding the air network in the border state for both strategic and local needs.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has communicated to the Chief Minister that heli services between Pithoragarh and Munsyari under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme are scheduled to commence by September 30, operated by Heritage Aviation.
Efforts are also in progress to initiate Pithoragarh-Dharchula heli services, with land acquisition for a helipad in Dharchula underway and initial operations approval granted to Heritage Aviation.
These developments are set to fortify Uttarakhand's civilian air travel infrastructure and enhance strategic defense capabilities, thereby improving accessibility to remote Himalayan areas and ensuring rapid deployment along the border.