Port Blair, July 18: The Member of Parliament, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Shri Kuldeep Rai Sharma today met the Hon’ble Union Minister for Civil Aviation, GoI, Shri. Jyothiraditya M. Scindia and demanded introduction of international flights from VSI Airport, Port Blair.

During the interaction, Kuldeep Rai Sharma emphasized the immense benefits that would arise from operating international flights from VSI Airport Port Blair, including job creation, economic growth and a significant boost to the tourism industry in Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Sharma stressed that the commencement of international flights from Port Blair would not only create employment opportunities for numerous individuals within the aviation sector but also stimulate ancillary industries, thus enhancing the overall local economy. The Member of Parliament urged the Minister to expedite the necessary processes and initiate international flight operations at the earliest.

Additionally, the MP expressed concerns about the high cost of airfares for stretcher patients requiring medical evacuation from Port Blair. Currently, stretcher patients are burdened with exorbitant airfare costs, reaching more that Rs. 240,000 for a single journey, which places an overwhelming financial strain on many families. Recognizing the need for affordable healthcare access, the Member of Parliament requested the Minister to collaborate with relevant airlines to reduce the cost of airfare for stretcher patients travelling from Port Blair.