Sri Vijaya Puram, May 01: Inter-island helicopter services to the Nicobar group have resumed from May 1 after the withdrawal of an airspace restriction that had temporarily halted operations, restoring a key mode of connectivity for the remote islands.
Authorities confirmed that the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), issued by Chennai Flight Information Region and originally in force from April 28 to May 1, 2026, has been withdrawn with effect from April 30. The earlier advisory had led to the suspension of helicopter services operating between islands in the Nicobar region.
The latest update follows a public notice issued on April 26, informing residents about the temporary restriction on air operations. With the NOTAM now lifted ahead of schedule, helicopter services have been reinstated from May 1, allowing normal flight movements to resume.
The resumption of services is expected to restore essential connectivity for residents of the Nicobar Islands, where helicopter transport plays a critical role in movement of passengers, officials, and supplies across dispersed and remote locations.
Officials have not indicated any further restrictions, and operations are expected to continue as per schedule following the withdrawal of the advisory. The development comes as a relief for those dependent on inter-island air links for daily and emergency travel.
The Chennai Flight Information Region had earlier issued the NOTAM as part of airspace management measures, impacting scheduled helicopter operations in the Nicobar sector. The early withdrawal has enabled authorities to reinstate services without further delay.
Residents have been advised to check updated schedules with concerned authorities as services stabilise following the brief disruption. The restoration of helicopter connectivity is expected to ease travel and logistical challenges across the Nicobar group.
