J&K to have Flying schools, heli-skiing for tourism promotion

Srinagar: In order to promote general aviation activities of helicopter and small aircraft in the state, the Civil Aviation Department is developing a technical complex at Satwari near Jammu Airport. The complex once ready can also be used to start flying school, which will be first of its kind in the state.
The Civil Aviation Department has also taken up with Airport Authority of India (AAI) to develop Kishtwar Airport to be funded by the AAI. In addition, survey is also being conducted to develop a landing strip at Surankote, Poonch in collaboration with AAI, after which a comprehensive Draft Project Report (DPR) would be formulated to be planned and funded by the state.
With a view to promoting international tourism alongwith local tourism, the department also plans to launch heli-skiing operations alongwith the helicopter services to various tourist destinations in the state by inviting private parties and helping them to establish their operations.
The department has undertaken upgradation of the Nehru Helipad to accommodate larger size helicopters.
25/09/08 Etalaat