No scope for large aircraft at Kargil airport: Ladakh LG

Ladakh Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Tuesday said there is currently no scope for operating large aircraft at Kargil Airport due to runway constraints, though smaller planes could be introduced after necessary upgrades, subject to commercial viability.

Speaking to reporters before concluding his four-day tour of the district, Saxena said he inspected the airport — located 6 km from the main town and operated by the Indian Air Force — following repeated public demand for its operationalisation. “After holding a detailed discussion with officials, including IAF representatives, I came to know that the runway, measuring about 6,000 feet, is short, narrow, and in a worn-out condition, making it unsuitable for large aircraft operations. Even with a possible extension of up to 3,000 feet, operational challenges would remain,” he said.

He added that the landing approach requires a difficult turn for large aircraft, while a mountain ahead poses a challenge during takeoff.