Gangtok, June 18 -- The MI-172 helicopter service, launched last year with much enthusiasm and publicity, is now being discontinued in Sikkim. In its place, the state government will introduce a smaller 10-seater helicopter better suited to local weather conditions. This was confirmed by CS Rao, Additional Chief Secretary of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department.

The Sikkim government had signed an agreement through the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) on February 29, 2024, to operate the MI-172 helicopter. The goal was to improve air connectivity and promote tourism across the state. However, despite the initial optimism, the service failed to meet expectations, leading to its closure within a year.

Key Reasons Behind ...