No Direct Flights From Punjab to UK, Canada Yet: Govt.
The much-anticipated direct international flights from Chandigarh and Amritsar to key destinations like the UK, Canada, and Singapore remain uncertain. The Ministry of Civil Aviation clarified its position on August 6, 2025.
The government’s role, it stressed, is primarily regulatory. It provides the necessary framework and approvals, but the final decision on routes rests solely with the airlines.
Airlines base their route planning on a complex interplay of factors. These include passenger demand, projected profitability, and various other commercial considerations. The government does not dictate flight schedules.
This clarification comes amidst rising public expectations in Punjab. Many residents had hoped for direct flights, easing travel to key destinations. The lack of these routes continues to pose challenges for the state’s burgeoning diaspora and business community. The absence of direct flights adds cost and travel time, impacting both personal and commercial interests.