Flydubai refused permission for Chandigarh night landings

Flydubai's service to Chandigarh, India has run into problems before the first flight has even taken off. Due to start the scheduled service on July 23 the Indian Air Force has refused to grant permission for the no-frills carrier to land at the airport during night.

As scheduled the flight is due to arrive at 2300 and depart some 40minutes later. The Indian Air Force controls the airfield and does not allow civilian movements after 2200.

Civil aviation authorities had sought permission for allowing night landing of the proposed international Chandigarh-Dubai flight, reported the Times of India.

On receiving the request, the local air force authorities referred the matter before Air Headquarters at New Delhi for final approval. However, this was denied.

And the apparent teething troubles don’t end there. According to information, even the immigration authorities and Chandigarh police have shown their helplessness at providing staff at the airport.

Sources said the immigration department refusal to open its centre at the airport could hamper plans. An immigration counter is required to fulfil formalities related with international flying, including checking passport, visa and customs. Sources added the authorities claimed they were facing a staff crunch and couldn’t provide people at the airport.

Director of Chandigarh airport Sunil Dutt said: “Since I’ve not been in town, we will now approach the authorities concerned again for the facilities necessary to begin the first international flight from city. We are in touch with administration and are hopeful of celebrating the historic moment as per schedule.”

Talking about the latest hurdle a flydubai spokesperson said: “We are hopeful that things will work out before July 16, which is the day we are supposed to announce the final schedule for Chandigarh-Dubai flight.”