PM Modi Inaugurates Halwara Airport, Giving Ludhiana a Major Air Connectivity Boost
February 1, 2026
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Tashleen Kaur / Ludhiana

Ludhiana’s long-awaited Halwara Airport was officially inaugurated today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who virtually opened the civil terminal on Sunday afternoon as part of his visit to Punjab. The inauguration marks the completion of a major milestone in regional aviation infrastructure, with flight operations expected to begin in the coming weeks.

The new civil terminal, part of the Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha International Airport, Halwara, is located about 32 kilometers from Ludhiana and has been developed on land shared with an Indian Air Force base. Designed to handle narrow-body aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, the airport is expected to significantly enhance air connectivity for the region once commercial operations commence.

The modern terminal offers improved passenger amenities and incorporates eco-friendly infrastructure, including energy-efficient lighting and rainwater harvesting systems. With its launch, the airport is expected to reduce Ludhiana’s dependence on Chandigarh and Delhi airports, particularly benefiting the city’s industrial and export sectors.

Ahead of the virtual inauguration, optimism is evident across the city. Rajdeep Singh, a garment exporter, said improved air connectivity would greatly support Ludhiana’s business community, which has long struggled with logistical challenges. Amrita Kaur, a school teacher, noted that the airport would make air travel more convenient for families who currently have to travel long distances to access flights.

However, some residents remain cautiously optimistic. Gurpreet Singh, an auto mechanic, said the airport’s real impact would depend on how quickly regular commercial flights begin. Simran Sharma, a college student, believes enhanced connectivity could open up new education and employment opportunities for the city’s youth.

While the inauguration is scheduled for today, officials have indicated that commercial flight operations are expected to begin in the coming weeks, subject to final regulatory approvals and airline scheduling. Once fully operational, Halwara Airport is expected to play a crucial role in boosting connectivity, investment, and employment in the region.

PM Modi Halwara Airport Inauguration Ludhiana Airport News Punjab Air Connectivity Halwara Civil Terminal


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