New civil aviation infrastructure has been inaugurated at Air Force Station Leh, allowing for smoother use of the base by civilian planes and passengers.

The Indian Air Force said on Thursday “upgraded infrastructure will enable smoother aircraft ground movement and facilitate quicker civil departures. These improvements will enhance passenger convenience, and reduce turnaround time”.

Ladakh is a major tourist attraction and Leh is the only base from where civil flights operate.

The project was inaugurated by Kavinder Gupta, Lieutenant Governor of The Union Territory of Ladakh in the presence of Air Marshal JS Mann, Senior Air Staff Officer, Western Air Command. Chief Secretary of Ladakh Ashish Kundra was also present at the event.

Improved air connectivity would provide a strong impetus to tourism in Leh, generating economic opportunities and supporting local livelihoods. At the same time, the enhanced facilities would ensure more reliable air services for residents and visitors alike, while also strengthening the region’s ability to respond swiftly to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) requirements.

The inauguration marks a significant milestone in strengthening the Civil Aviation infrastructure in Ladakh and the spirit of close cooperation between the Civil Administration and all agencies involved in the region’s development. The infrastructure had been upgraded in record time despite extremely challenging high altitude terrain and adverse weather conditions, the IAF said.