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Ladakh Boosts Winter Connectivity with Resumed Helicopter Services
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News18•30-09-2026, 11:15
Ladakh Boosts Winter Connectivity with Resumed Helicopter Services
- •The Ladakh administration has restarted subsidised single-engine helicopter services from Leh to seven destinations to strengthen intra-UT air connectivity.
- •Services, recommenced from September 29, are operated by Pawan Hans Limited under a Wet Lease Agreement supported by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
- •The helicopter services connect Leh with Kargil, Padum, Lingshed, Dibling, Nyerak, Diskit, and Turtuk, providing alternative transportation and supporting emergency medical needs.
- •Subsidised fares range from Rs 4,650 to Rs 7,750 per passenger, with flying times between 30 to 50 minutes.
- •Flights are operated by experienced, instrument-rated licensed crew, with requisite airfield security and passenger screening arrangements in place.
Key Questions Answered
The Ladakh administration restarted subsidised single-engine helicopter services to strengthen intra-UT air connectivity, improve access to remote and far-flung areas during harsh winter months, provide an alternative mode of transportation, and support emergency medical requirements for residents and tourists.
The helicopter services are operated by Pawan Hans Limited under a Wet Lease Agreement supported by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
The subsidised fare for the Leh-Kargil sector is Rs 7,750 per passenger with a flying time of around 50 minutes, while the Leh-Padum sector costs Rs 6,975 with an approximate flying time of 45 minutes.
