Nagpur: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has stepped in to seek the restoration of Air India flights that have been discontinued or reduced from Nagpur. In a letter addressed to Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran, Gadkari urged the airline to reconsider its decision and restore flight services on the crucial Nagpur–Mumbai route at the earliest.
The move comes in response to concerns raised by Ashish Kale, President of the Association for Industrial Development (AID), regarding the reduction in air connectivity between Nagpur and Mumbai. Supporting the demand, Gadkari highlighted Nagpur’s rapidly growing industrial and economic significance and stressed that any reduction in air services could adversely affect the region’s development trajectory.
In his communication, Gadkari noted that Nagpur is witnessing substantial growth in investments, industrial activity, and business expansion. He emphasized that reliable air connectivity is essential for supporting trade, attracting investors, and facilitating seamless business travel.
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The Union Minister also expressed concern that reduced flight frequency between Nagpur and Mumbai could negatively impact industries, entrepreneurs, investors, and regular passengers. Since Mumbai serves as India’s financial and commercial capital, maintaining strong and consistent air links with Nagpur is vital for the economic growth of the Vidarbha region, he said.
Gadkari further underlined Nagpur’s increasing importance in the aviation sector. He pointed out that the ongoing expansion and modernization of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport are positioning the city as a major aviation and logistics hub for central India in the coming years.
Earlier, AID had submitted a representation highlighting the potential impact of Air India’s flight cuts on industrial growth, investment opportunities, and passenger convenience across Vidarbha. The organization stressed that robust and regular air connectivity is essential to sustain the region’s development momentum.
AID has welcomed Gadkari’s intervention and expressed gratitude for his prompt response to the issue. The association believes that the minister’s efforts will strengthen regional connectivity and has expressed hope that Air India and the Tata Group will take a positive decision to restore the cancelled services from Nagpur.
Speaking on the matter, AID President Ashish Kale said he is optimistic that the airline will reconsider its decision and resume operations on the affected routes, benefiting businesses, investors, and travelers across Vidarbha.
