Air India Cleared for March Flights as Halwara Airport Terminal Opens in Punjab

The long-delayed Halwara International Airport (HWR) terminal is now operational. Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the new terminal building on February 1, 2026. This marks a major milestone for aviation in Punjab. The airport is a crucial development for Ludhiana's industrial sector.

Commercial Operations and Capacity

Commercial flight operations are anticipated to begin in the first week of March 2026. Air India has reportedly received the necessary clearances from the Indian Air Force (IAF). The airline is scheduled to commence flights, initially planning for five days a week. This new civil enclave is a key upgrade for the region. The previous Sahnewal airport had frequent disruptions and a short runway. Halwara's facility utilizes the IAF base runway. This allows for year-round operations, even in foggy conditions. The new terminal can accommodate larger aircraft. These include the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737-700 models. The facility has an IATA code of HWR and ICAO code VIHX. The terminal is built to handle 150 passengers for both arrivals and departures.

Project Timeline and Political Context

The Halwara Airport project faced prolonged delays since its approval in 2018. Construction stalled in mid-2022 due to funding issues. The project gained momentum after intervention from the state's Chief Minister. Subsequently, ₹50 crore was released in December 2022 to restart work.

With 2026 being an election year, a 'credit war' has emerged over the project's completion.

• The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) highlights the efforts of Minister Sanjeev Arora. They also point to the Chief Minister's intervention and fund release.
• The BJP-led Central Government asserts its role. BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu noted that key departments like Aviation and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) are central. He credited the Prime Minister's personal interest for the project's fruition.
• Senior Congress leader Pawan Dewan also welcomed the opening. He thanked the Union Civil Aviation Minister for the early operationalisation.

Economic Impact and Future Outlook

The operationalisation of Halwara Airport is a significant boost for the region. Ludhiana is one of North India's largest manufacturing hubs. The airport will enhance the state’s industrial and export ecosystem. It will also reduce travel time for both passengers and industry stakeholders. The ability to handle larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A320, is critical. This capacity will improve connectivity to major domestic and international markets. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) oversees all regulatory aspects. The shift from Sahnewal to Halwara is expected to stabilize air services. This improved regional air connectivity is vital for economic growth.

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