Passenger traffic at Shillong Airport, which had been dormant for decades, is suddenly expanding with each passing day, thanks to the numerous aircraft that now connect landlocked Meghalaya with other Northeastern states.
In addition, on Monday, the Shillong Airport had the highest number of passengers ever, with 547 arriving and departing. There were 292 people who arrived on the day, and 255 people who left.
A total of 503 passengers were entertained at the airport on December 20.
Following the arrival of several flights in November, the lone operational airport in Meghalaya has seen an increase in visitation. During the month of November, a total of 8,533 passengers flew out of this airport. However, there are other logistical obstacles that burn a hole in the pockets of the fliers, as taxis demand exorbitant rates to transport passengers to and from the airport.
Commercial taxis are reportedly asking Rs 1,500-2,000 to transport passengers from the capital to the airport and back, and the cost of transit from Shillong to the airport is sometimes higher than the cost of flight tickets.
According to sources, efforts will be made to reach an amicable resolution by having talks with the Airports Authority of India, the district administration, and local taxi unions.
Prepaid taxi services are currently unavailable at the Shillong Airport, although this is likely to change soon.
Furthermore, there is currently no direct bus service from Shillong to the airport, which would have cost significantly less than what is being charged presently.
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