By Kavita Mistry 
In a landmark decision ending nearly 70 years of aviation service, Air India will suspend flight operations to and from Silchar Airport starting June 1. The Tata Group-run airline’s last scheduled flight on the Silchar-Kolkata route will depart on May 31.
The suspension — confirmed by senior Air India officials — comes without an official explaination from the airline. Sources reveal that an internal communication has already been circulated, offering voluntary retirement to the airline’s permanent station manager in Silchar. However, uncertainty looms over several contractual employees, with no clear reassignment plans.
Since its first service in 1955, Air India (formerly Indian Airlines) has played a crucial role in connecting Silchar to the rest of India. The Silchar-Kolkata route, especially the daily flight, has long been a lifeline for the region, consistently averaging 120 passengers per trip.
The withdrawal is expected to have far-reaching consequences on regional connectivity. With limited and often unreliable surface transport — especially during monsoons — air travel remains crucial. Air India’s departure leaves only IndiGo and Alliance Air operating flights from Silchar, raising fears of capacity constraints and fare surges.
“Ticket prices will likely rise as demand outstrips supply, especially during peak travel periods and emergencies,” cautioned a travel industry sources.
The decision has triggered concern among frequent flyers, local residents, and stakeholders, who urge civil aviation authorities to intervene and ensure continued, affordable air connectivity for Silchar and the broader Barak Valley region.
