Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 24: Air connectivity to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands remains a key concern for the tourism sector, with tour operators seeking lower airfares and higher flight frequency ahead of the winter schedule. The Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) raised the demands during a meeting with senior Air India officials in Port Blair on September 23, while the airline cited an aircraft shortage and delays in aircraft deliveries amid the ongoing international crisis.
AATO also urged Air India to retain its existing services beyond May and sought clarity on expanding flight operations to the islands. The association argued that dependable and affordable air links are important to tourist arrivals and the wider local economy because of the islands’ reliance on air connectivity.
The tourism body said the Andaman and Nicobar Islands should be treated as an all-season destination and highlighted ongoing efforts by the industry to attract visitors during June, July and August. It linked consistent air services and reasonable fares to sustaining tourist movement during these months.
AATO President M. Vinod, General Secretary Saikat Biswas and Vice President Navneet attended the meeting at the association’s office. Air India was represented by Rahul Bose, Associate Manager–Trade Sales, Kolkata, and Srinivasan Rajachandrasekharan, Associate Vice President–Commercial.
In response to the request for additional services, Air India officials told the delegation that the airline is dealing with a significant shortage of aircraft. They also cited delays in aircraft deliveries linked to the ongoing international crisis.
The airline representatives said the concerns raised by AATO would be conveyed to Air India’s highest authorities and that efforts would be made to address the issues.
The two sides are expected to continue discussions. A meeting in Kolkata is planned for next month, while another engagement with Air India authorities is proposed before preparation of the summer flight schedule, tentatively in December 2026 or January 2027.
AATO said it would continue engaging with airlines and other stakeholders on air connectivity, fares and tourism growth in the islands.
