IndiGo stops Bengaluru Shivamogga flights for 3 months from May

IndiGo has stopped flights between Bengaluru and Shivamogga for an estimated three months. This is due to new flying rules affecting pilots and planes.
By Newsroom | Aviation, Karnataka |

IndiGo Airlines has suspended its flights between Bengaluru and Shivamogga, a move that has prompted Shivamogga MP B.Y. Raghavendra to engage with authorities, including M.B. Patil, to ensure the continuation of these services. The airline cited a shortage of pilots and aircraft, linked to new mandatory flying regulations, as the reason for discontinuing the route from May. This suspension, slated to last for an estimated three months, impacts a significant passenger flow between the two cities.

Shivamogga MP writes to M.B. Patil to ensure Shivamogga-Bengaluru flight services are unaffected - 1

The Shivamogga airport, officially Kuvempu Domestic Airport (VOSH), began operations on August 31, 2023, with an inaugural IndiGo flight from Bengaluru. The airport was envisioned to enhance regional connectivity, and the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation had previously approved flights connecting Shivamogga to several other major cities including Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Goa (Mopa), and Tirupati, under the regional connectivity scheme UDAN. Various private operators like Star Air and SpiceJet have also contributed to the airport's flight schedule since its inception, with IndiGo being a primary carrier.

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Shivamogga MP writes to M.B. Patil to ensure Shivamogga-Bengaluru flight services are unaffected - 2

Efforts to address the suspension are underway, with MP Raghavendra actively seeking ways to convince IndiGo to resume services. This situation highlights the delicate balance of airline operations, regulatory compliance, and regional development. While IndiGo's decision points to operational challenges, the passenger demand for the Shivamogga-Bengaluru route remains strong.

Shivamogga MP writes to M.B. Patil to ensure Shivamogga-Bengaluru flight services are unaffected - 3

Background of Shivamogga Airport Development

The establishment of Shivamogga airport has been a multi-year endeavor, marked by significant political backing and infrastructural development. Lok Sabha member B.Y. Raghavendra has been a vocal proponent, advocating for its expansion and route approvals. In June 2023, he secured approval for 11 routes, with the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation clearing flights to Delhi, Chennai, New Goa, Tirupati, and Hyderabad. Infrastructure Development Minister M.B. Patil has also been instrumental, overseeing the airport's upgrade for round-the-clock operations, including the installation of modern navigational aids to ensure safe flights during adverse weather and at night. This upgrade, announced in August 2025, signals a commitment to enhancing the airport's capabilities and services.

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Shivamogga MP writes to M.B. Patil to ensure Shivamogga-Bengaluru flight services are unaffected - 4

Over its operational period, the Shivamogga airport has seen considerable activity. By August 2025, the airport had handled approximately 2,400 flights and over one lakh passengers. IndiGo alone had operated more than 670 flights, carrying nearly 31,500 passengers. Star Air and SpiceJet also reported significant operations during the same timeframe. Despite these achievements, the airport has faced operational challenges, including instances where flights could not land due to adverse conditions, as seen in July 2024 when a flight carrying the Home Minister had to return to Bengaluru. Furthermore, MP Raghavendra previously voiced concerns regarding delays in improving airport facilities, specifically the night landing facility, attributing them to a lack of response from the state government in August 2024.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why has IndiGo stopped flights between Bengaluru and Shivamogga?
IndiGo has suspended its Bengaluru-Shivamogga route for an estimated three months starting in May. This is because of a shortage of pilots and aircraft, which is linked to new mandatory flying regulations.
Q: Who is trying to get the flights back?
Shivamogga MP B.Y. Raghavendra is talking to authorities, including M.B. Patil, to try and get IndiGo to restart the flights. He wants to ensure these services continue for the people.
Q: How many people and flights use this route?
The Shivamogga airport, which opened in August 2023, has seen significant use. By August 2025, IndiGo alone had flown nearly 31,500 passengers on over 670 flights on this route.
Q: What is the Shivamogga airport's history?
The airport was approved for several routes, including to Delhi, Chennai, and Hyderabad, under the UDAN scheme. It has handled about 2,400 flights and over one lakh passengers by August 2025.
Q: Have there been other problems at Shivamogga airport?
Yes, in July 2024, a flight carrying the Home Minister had to turn back to Bengaluru because of bad weather. Also, in August 2024, MP Raghavendra raised concerns about delays in improving airport facilities like night landing.