Introduction:

In response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Nagrik Upbhokta Margdarshak Manch, the Madhya Pradesh High Court is addressing concerns over the reduced air connectivity to Jabalpur. The petition highlights the city’s strategic importance and the decline in flight operations despite significant investments in airport infrastructure.

Petitioner’s Arguments:

The petitioners, represented by Dr. P.G. Najpande and Rajat Bhargava, argue that Jabalpur, with its defense establishments, educational institutions, and tourist attractions, deserves robust air connectivity. They point out that the number of daily flights has decreased from an average of 15 to just five, adversely affecting the city’s development and accessibility.

Respondents’ Positions:

IndiGo Airlines, through its counsel, contends that as a private entity, it operates based on commercial viability and is not obligated under Article 12 of the Constitution to adhere to directives regarding flight operations. The Airport Authority of India (AAI) also states that initiating flight operations falls outside its jurisdiction and is determined by individual airlines.

Court’s Observations:

The Division Bench, comprising Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva and Justice Vinay Saraf, acknowledges the limitations of issuing mandates to private airlines but emphasizes the potential benefits of increased connectivity. The court suggests that airlines like IndiGo consider test runs to assess commercial viability, noting that improved flight schedules could attract more passengers and boost tourism.