The Indigo morning flight service from Nashik to Delhi, considered important for Nashik residents, has been temporarily suspended. Previously, the Nashik-Bangalore flight service was discontinued. Although the company has cited “technical reasons,” it is emerging that this reduction is due to the rescheduling of pilot operations. As a result, businesspeople, industrialists, and regular travelers are significantly affected.
Currently, there is air connectivity from Ozar Airport in Nashik to six major cities. Among them, the service to Delhi is considered the most important. The flight departing from Delhi at 6:45 AM used to arrive in Nashik at 8:30 AM. Subsequently, the flight departing from Nashik at 9 AM used to reach Delhi at 11 AM. This service was available three days a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Now, this service has been temporarily suspended.
Additionally, the Nashik–Bangalore flight service has already been suspended. There were two days of service per week on this route, Tuesday and Thursday. The flight departing from Bangalore at 1:20 PM would reach Nashik at 3 PM, while the flight departing from Nashik at 3:40 PM would reach Bangalore at 5:30 PM. It has been stated that this service has been closed for a month.
Although the airline has officially cited technical reasons, it is emerging that many airlines across the country are rescheduling pilots' working hours. According to the rules of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), there are limits on pilots' working hours. Against this backdrop, there is talk of changes in flight schedules and reductions in some services by companies.
Meanwhile, dissatisfaction is being expressed among Nashik residents due to this decision. Especially since Delhi and Bangalore are two major business centers, representatives from the industry sector have to arrange alternative travel. With rail or air travel via Mumbai being the only options left, both time and cost are expected to increase.
Local business organizations say that the closure of services is a matter of concern, especially when there is a continuous demand for the expansion of Ozar Airport and more flights. Indigo has not yet made a clear announcement about when this service will resume. Therefore, the attention of Nashik residents is now on the company's next decision.