SHILLONG, July 23: The Meghalaya government has assured that all necessary safety precautions have been taken following the recent launch of helicopter services connecting Shillong, Guwahati, and Tura.
Commissioner and Secretary of the Transport department, Sanjay Goyal, on Wednesday stated that the tendering process was carried out in adherence to all standard procedures laid down by the Ministry of Home Affairs, with full attention to safety protocols. “Ultimately, the decision to fly rests with the pilot, based on prevailing weather conditions. If helicopters are grounded, it is solely due to weather-related concerns,” Goyal explained.
The helicopter services, which resumed earlier this month, now connect Shillong and Tura via Guwahati. There are two daily flights between Guwahati and Shillong (Monday to Saturday), while the Tura–Guwahati–Tura service operates once a day on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Each flight between Shillong and Guwahati is priced at Rs 2,200 per person. For those traveling the full Shillong–Guwahati–Tura route (or vice versa), the fare is Rs 3,000 per ticket.
Meanwhile, the Transport department, encouraged by the strong public response to the newly introduced shuttle service between Shillong and Guwahati Airport, is now considering an additional afternoon service along the same route.
Goyal remarked that the response has been very positive, with passengers appreciating the quick and affordable travel option, priced as low as Rs 400.
He further added that although the Shillong Airport is currently undergoing expansion, the department is actively exploring the possibility of introducing similar air connectivity services in the near future.
