India, Oct. 28 -- Flight operations from Sindhudurg to Mumbai operated by Air India Express (formerly Alliance Air) ground to a halt on Saturday, causing disappointment among locals and tourists, especially with Diwali round the corner.

The flights, initially launched with enthusiasm, have now been discontinued as the airline's three-year contract has expired, said a company official. This unexpected suspension has frustrated Sindhudurg residents, who are demanding that the service be reinstated.

A senior official from Alliance Air said, "We are currently reviewing the situation and are in discussions with the central aviation ministry about continuing services from Chipi Airport. However, no decision has been reached yet."

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