Flight cancellations paralysing tourism, economy: JKHARA

Srinagar, Jan 5: The Jammu and Kashmir Hotels and Restaurants Association (JKHARA) has called for an immediate upgrade of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) at Srinagar International Airport, as recurring flight cancellations continue to severely disrupt travel plans and impact the region's economy. The association's urgent appeal comes amid a series of flight disruptions that have left hundreds of passengers stranded and businesses struggling.

"The situation has become untenable," stated JKHARA President Babar Chowdhary. "Over the past three days alone, we have been inundated with hundreds of distress calls from both tourists and local residents who find themselves stranded due to flight cancellations at Srinagar Airport. The most concerning aspect is the apparent lack of support from airline operators in facilitating rebooking or arranging additional flights for affected passengers."

The association pointed out that numerous airports across India have successfully implemented advanced landing systems that enable operations during low visibility conditions. "It's perplexing that despite Srinagar's well-documented winter fog patterns and their impact on flight operations, we still lack the necessary infrastructure to address this recurring challenge," Chowdhary emphasized. "An upgraded ILS is not a luxury but a necessity for an airport serving a major tourist destination and regional hub."

The impact of these disruptions extends far beyond mere inconvenience. The hospitality sector reports significant financial losses as tourists either cancel their visits or cut short their stays due to uncertainty about return flights. Local residents face equally challenging circumstances, with many missing crucial medical appointments, educational commitments, and business engagements.

"The ripple effect of these cancellations is devastating," Chowdhary added. "Students are missing important examinations, patients are unable to reach their scheduled medical treatments, and business travelers are facing mounting losses. The psychological stress on travelers, combined with the economic impact on our tourism industry, demands immediate attention from authorities."

JKHARA emphasises that the installation of an advanced ILS would significantly reduce weather-related flight cancellations, ensuring more reliable air connectivity throughout the year. This upgrade would not only benefit the tourism sector but also enhance the overall accessibility and economic development of the Kashmir region.

The association has urged Airport Authority of India  to expedite the process of upgrading the airport's landing system, noting that such improvements are crucial for maintaining Kashmir's position as a premier tourist destination and ensuring reliable air travel for local residents.