Sri Vijaya Puram, November 3: Repeated last-minute cancellations of SpiceJet flights to and from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are disrupting tourists’ travel plans, increasing financial uncertainty for tourism operators and threatening the islands’ reputation as a destination, the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) has warned.
The association has sought the Lieutenant Governor’s intervention, arguing that unpredictable flight operations are worsening an already difficult situation for the tourism industry, which continues to face persistently high airfares. It has called for greater airline accountability, alternative travel arrangements and appropriate relief for affected passengers under applicable regulations.
In a representation to the Lieutenant Governor, AATO President M. Vinod raised concerns over recurring cancellations, stating that the problem extends beyond isolated incidents. The association said it had previously approached the concerned authorities seeking a lasting solution but remained concerned about the repeated disruption.
The cancellations have wider implications for visitors who organise their island holidays well in advance. Travellers typically make advance reservations for accommodation, cruises, local transportation, sightseeing and other tourism-related services. A sudden change in flight schedules can disrupt these interconnected bookings, leaving visitors facing financial losses, logistical difficulties and uncertainty over their travel arrangements.
AATO said the consequences extend beyond individual passengers. Repeated disruptions could discourage prospective tourists from choosing the islands for future holidays, affecting businesses and thousands of people whose livelihoods depend on tourism. The association also warned that unreliable air connectivity could weaken the destination’s image among travellers at a time when the industry is already dealing with high ticket prices.
The representation asks the Lieutenant Governor to facilitate action through the concerned authorities to address the recurring cancellations and ensure greater accountability from SpiceJet. It has specifically sought measures to minimise last-minute disruptions and establish suitable alternative arrangements and passenger relief mechanisms in accordance with applicable regulations.
The association has also drawn attention to the impact of these cancellations on the Administration’s efforts to promote and develop tourism in the islands. It said disruptions in air services were working against those efforts by affecting visitor confidence and the overall travel experience.
AATO has placed the issue before the Lieutenant Governor for intervention, seeking an effective resolution in the interests of passengers, tourism businesses and the wider island economy.
