Archive · 19 Jun 2025
Sikkim to Switch Helicopters Between Bagdogra and Gangtok
Sikkim is changing how tourists get around by air.
They're swapping the big helicopter for smaller ones.
The old service was too expensive and didn't have many riders.
The new plan is to start the small chopper flights after the rainy season, maybe during a big holiday.
The smaller helicopters can land in more places and could be used in emergencies, unlike the bigger one.
The state spent a lot of money on the old service.
Sikkim replaces its 23-seater helicopter service with smaller 10-seater choppers.
The previous helicopter service, which began in March 2024, has been withdrawn.
The new service aims to start after the monsoon season, potentially during Durga Puja.
The state government sent a notice to Sky One Airways Private Limited, the operator of the former service.
The former service was costly, with the state bearing approximately ₹20 crore annually.
- Who
- The tourism and civil aviation department of Sikkim is making the change.
- What
- Sikkim is replacing its large helicopter service with smaller choppers for travel between Bagdogra and Gangtok.
- When
- The new service aims to begin after the monsoon season.
- Where
- The service operates between Bagdogra and Gangtok, Sikkim.
- Why
- The larger helicopter service was financially burdensome and underutilized; the smaller choppers are seen as more practical.
Previous Service - Concerns
New Service - Aims
Accessibility
Previous Service - Concerns
Large chopper couldn't land in many locations
New Service - Aims
Smaller choppers can land in more locations, increasing utility.
Ridership
Previous Service - Concerns
The service drew inadequate number of passengers.
New Service - Aims
The new service is hoping to increase the ridership due to the ability to land in different locations and also be used in emergencies.
- Previous Helicopter Capacity
- 23-seater
- New Chopper Capacity
- 10-seater
- Route
- Bagdogra to Gangtok
- Former Service Start Date
- March 2024
- Former Fare
- ₹4,500
- Estimated Annual Cost (Former)
- ₹20 crore
- Former Operator
- Sky One Airways Private Limited