Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs B.L. Verma on Tuesday declared that the newly constructed Domestic Airport (Civil Enclave) at Ambala Cantonment in Haryana is on the verge of becoming India's 165th operational airport, with flight services expected to commence very soon. Verma made the announcement after a joint inspection of the facility alongside Haryana Energy Minister Anil Vij, signalling that the long-awaited aviation hub is now in its final stretch before launch.

India's Airport Growth Since 2014

Addressing the media after the inspection, Verma noted that when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Central government assumed office under Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, only 74 airports were operational across India. That figure has since more than doubled to 164, and the Ambala facility is poised to push the tally to 165. Verma credited the expansion to sustained infrastructure investment and policy focus on regional air connectivity under Modi's leadership.

Strategic Importance of Ambala Cantonment

During the inspection, Energy Minister Vij briefed the Union Minister on the historical and strategic significance of the Ambala airbase. 'Owing to its strategic significance, even the British had chosen Ambala as an airbase during their rule,' Vij was quoted as saying. The cantonment is among the oldest and most strategically important airbases in India, with a runway equipped with modern facilities enabling safe aircraft operations round the clock and in all weather conditions.

The domestic airport spans approximately 20 acres and is designed to serve as a key aviation hub for passengers from Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and surrounding regions. Vij also highlighted that Ambala Cantonment is one of North India's major railway junctions, with around 276 trains arriving and departing daily, serving millions of passengers from multiple states including Delhi.

Operational Status and Remaining Work

According to Vij, arrangements for domestic flight parking bays have been finalised and only a few minor works remain, which are expected to be completed within the next week. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has confirmed there are no technical obstacles to launching flight services from the airport. Several airline companies have already applied to operate flights from the facility, underscoring strong commercial interest ahead of the formal inauguration.

Regional Connectivity Impact

The commencement of operations at Ambala airport is expected to significantly strengthen regional connectivity across northern India. The airport will reduce travel burden for passengers who currently rely on airports in Chandigarh or Delhi, both of which serve overlapping catchment areas. Notably, this development comes amid the Centre's broader push under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme to connect smaller cities and towns through affordable air travel. Verma congratulated Vij, the Chief Minister, Prime Minister Modi, and all departments, officers, and engineers involved in the project for their contributions.