As the political heat is increasing around the upcoming assembly elections in Bengal, Kolkata airport is also getting busy. In this situation, major preparations are being made to handle the movement of passengers and VVIPs.
As the political climate intensifies in anticipation of the forthcoming assembly elections in Bengal, Kolkata airport is experiencing increased activity. In light of this, the Netaji Subhas International Airport Authority has commenced substantial preparations to manage the flow of passengers and VVIPs. Reports indicate that a special “dedicated zone” is being established at the airport to accommodate the heightened demand for chartered planes and helicopters during the election period.
According to airport sources, where typically five to six helicopters take off and land daily, this number has now risen to 10 to 12 during the election season. As voting progresses, it is anticipated that this figure may surpass 20 per day. This suggests that there could be approximately four times more “non-scheduled” flights than usual.
The airport authority has stated that Kolkata Airport has now emerged as the central hub for the arrival and departure of prominent leaders from various political parties across the nation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have already made multiple visits to the state. As the election campaign escalates, it is expected that numerous additional national-level leaders, ministers, and star campaigners will arrive in the coming days.
Sources indicate that plans are in motion to establish a separate zone for helicopters at the airport to manage this increased demand. This arrangement will ensure that chartered flights and helicopters do not disrupt the operations of regular passenger flights. Furthermore, special “revolving doors” will be installed to expedite the swift entry and exit of VVIP passengers. An official from the airport authority remarked that during election campaigns, the travel of political leaders is heavily reliant on helicopters. This is due to the necessity for rapid movement.
