Sir,

It is indeed disheartening to learn that Mysore Airport is running under losses with a steady decline in flights. For a city of such heritage and tourism potential, this is nothing short of a shame.

Under the Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme, affordable ticket pricing could make air travel accessible to middle-income passengers, thereby increasing passenger traffic.

Equally important is the restoration of direct connections to major cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata and Delhi. In addition, flights linking Mysuru with Hubli, Pune, Belagavi, Shivamogga, Mangaluru, Cochin, Tiruchi and Madurai must be introduced at least two to three times a week. These links would significantly reduce the dependence on long road journeys to Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport.

Another pressing need is the extension of the Airport’s runway, which would allow larger aircraft and more routes to operate. If taken up on a war-footing, these measures could transform Mysore Airport in Mandakalli into a profitable hub while giving this beautiful city the connectivity it rightfully deserves.

– Kala Chary, Bogadi, 8.8.2025