Shivamogga faces loss of air connectivity as Star Air suspends bookings

Shivamogga: Shivamogga is on the verge of losing its air connectivity, with Star Air, the last airline operating from Shivamogga airport, suspending flight bookings and expected to halt its services completely from November 21.

The development comes after IndiGo discontinued its Shivamogga-Bengaluru service from May 1, followed by SpiceJet suspending operations from June 9. Star Air’s proposed withdrawal would leave the airport without commercial flight services. Low passenger demand, inadequate government support and the expiry of financial incentives under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN are reportedly among the major reasons behind the airline’s decision.

The financial burden of operating from the airport has also emerged as a concern. More than 200 employees are currently working at the airport, involving monthly salary and maintenance expenditure of approximately Rs. 95 lakh. Reacting to the development, Shivamogga MP B.Y. Raghavendra said the suspension of commercial flight services was temporary. He expressed hope that operations would resume within the next two months.

The Centre is preparing for the UDAN-6 scheme, while the Karnataka government has submitted a proposal seeking connectivity to 10 new destinations from Shivamogga, he said. The possible shutdown has raised concerns over regional connectivity, tourism and economic development in the Malnad region. The airport was built at considerable public expense, and the loss of flight services would undermine the objective of improving connectivity to Shivamogga and neighbouring districts.