The Belgaum Chamber of Commerce & Industries (BCCI) has raised serious concerns over the inadequate and unreliable air connectivity from Belagavi, stating that poor flight services are hampering industrial growth, business expansion, tourism, education, healthcare, and the overall economic development of North Karnataka.
In a press statement, the Chamber said Belagavi has emerged as one of Karnataka’s fastest-growing industrial cities and serves as a gateway to North Karnataka, South Maharashtra, and parts of Goa. Despite its strategic importance and contribution to the state’s economy, the city continues to face limited flight connectivity, frequent schedule disruptions, and an insufficient number of flights to major destinations.
BCCI said it had held discussions with representatives of IndiGo, Star Air, and Sambra Airport authorities in February 2026, highlighting the difficulties faced by industrialists, entrepreneurs, exporters, professionals, students, patients, and other travellers. The airlines were requested to improve connectivity and strengthen their services, but the Chamber claimed that the concerns of Belagavi’s residents remain largely unaddressed.
According to the Chamber, inadequate air connectivity has become a significant obstacle to attracting investments and supporting business growth. Many industrialists and entrepreneurs are forced to travel through neighbouring airports, resulting in additional travel time, higher costs, and reduced productivity. The lack of dependable flights also impacts investors, tourists, medical travellers, and students.
The Chamber noted that Belagavi has consistently generated strong passenger traffic whenever quality air services have been introduced, demonstrating the city’s demand for better connectivity.
BCCI has urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Airports Authority of India, and airline operators, particularly IndiGo and Star Air, to take immediate steps to:
- Increase the frequency of flights from Belagavi.
- Introduce direct flights to Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Delhi, Chennai, and Ahmedabad.
- Ensure reliable schedules by minimising last-minute cancellations and delays.
- Plan future expansion of air services in line with Belagavi’s growing industrial and commercial needs.
The Chamber has also appealed to Members of Parliament, Members of the Legislative Assembly, elected representatives, industry associations, educational institutions, and the public to unite in demanding better air connectivity for Belagavi.
Calling improved air connectivity an essential requirement rather than a luxury, BCCI said Belagavi deserves aviation services that match its industrial significance and development potential. It also appealed to the media to highlight the issue in the larger public interest.