A wave of excitement and celebration swept through Halwara Airport on Friday morning as the first Air India flight from Delhi touched down at 7:05 am, marking a long-awaited moment for the region.
Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu poses with dancers at the commencement of flights. Tribune photo: Himanshu Mahajan
The terminal complex transformed into a vibrant cultural stage, with loud Punjabi music filling the air and traditional performances adding colour to the historic arrival. Giddha performers welcomed passengers in a spirited display of local heritage, while students energised the atmosphere with lively Bhangra inside the airport premises.
Passengers excited to board a flight at Halwara Airport. Tribune photo: Himanshu Mahajan
The mood remained festive throughout the morning, as visitors, airport staff and local residents gathered to witness what many described as a landmark moment for regional connectivity.
The inaugural landing quickly turned into a celebration rather than a routine airport operation, symbolising the hopes attached to the new aviation facility.
Local leader Bittu joined students in dancing to the beats of Punjabi music and encouraged them for their participation, further adding to the celebratory spirit of the occasion.
Speaking on the sidelines, he expressed optimism that the airport would soon see regular flight operations, improving air connectivity for Ludhiana and surrounding areas and making travel more convenient for residents.
Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu, Rajya Sabha MP Rajinder Gupta, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Singh Sahney and other passengers arrive on the historic first commercial Air India flight from Delhi after it landed at Halwara Airport in Ludhiana on Friday. Tribune photo: Himanshu Mahajan
As the celebrations continued, there was a shared sense of anticipation that Halwara Airport could soon emerge as an important regional gateway, opening new possibilities for travel and growth.