In a landmark development for Uttarakhand, the Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh has officially come under the control of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Uttarakhand Government and AAI in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This historic agreement marks a major leap towards safe, sustainable, and regular air connectivity for the mountainous and border regions of the state. The move will not only modernize Pithoragarh’s aviation infrastructure but also transform the district — now a thriving hub for religious, adventure, and cultural tourism.
Pithoragarh: Gateway to the Abode of Lord Mahadev
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Pithoragarh is fast emerging as a national tourism magnet — drawing devotees and explorers alike to the Adi Kailash Yatra, Milam Glacier, Chipla Kedar, and other sacred sites resting in the shelter of Lord Mahadev. Known as the Gateway to Kailash, the district has seen a surge in domestic and international visitors seeking peace, spirituality, and adventure in its holy mountains.
With AAI’s takeover, Naini Saini Airport will now play a pivotal role in supporting this influx. The airport, spread over 70 acres, currently has a terminal capacity for 40 passengers and can handle two Code 2B aircraft simultaneously. Under AAI’s management, the runway, terminal, and apron will be upgraded to meet national aviation standards, ensuring year-round connectivity and reliability.
A New Dawn for Border Tourism
The integration of Naini Saini Airport with AAI marks a turning point for the border district once considered inaccessible. With flights soon connecting the sacred valleys of Adi Kailash and Johar, Pithoragarh is poised to become the next spiritual and ecological tourism hub of North India.
As the mountains echo with the chants of pilgrims and the footsteps of trekkers, Naini Saini’s revival under AAI is set to turn Pithoragarh into the crown jewel of Uttarakhand’s tourism circuit — where divinity, development, and national pride converge.
