Government launches non-stop Vijayawada-Varanasi air service to strengthen pilgrimage connectivity

India's aviation network expanded further with the launch of a direct air service between Vijayawada and Varanasi, a move aimed at improving connectivity between two prominent pilgrimage destinations.

Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu announced the launch of the non-stop route, stating that the service would strengthen religious tourism links between Sri Kanaka Durga Amma Temple in Vijayawada and Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi.

The announcement was made through a social media post on Thursday, according to public broadcaster News On AIR.

New route targets pilgrimage travel demand

The direct service is expected to reduce travel time for pilgrims and travellers moving between Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

According to Mr Naidu, the new connectivity will support travel between two of India's most significant spiritual centres and enhance access for devotees visiting the temples.

The route forms part of the government's broader efforts to strengthen regional and domestic air connectivity across the country.

Key highlights

• Direct air connectivity launched between Vijayawada and Varanasi
• Initiative announced by Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu
• Route expected to support pilgrimage tourism between Sri Kanaka Durga Amma Temple and Kashi Vishwanath Temple
• Announcement comes amid ongoing aviation infrastructure development in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh airport projects move closer to completion

Alongside the route launch, Mr Naidu provided an update on aviation infrastructure projects in Andhra Pradesh.

He noted that work on new airport terminals at:

• Vijayawada
• Rajahmundry
• Kadapa

is nearing completion.

The minister linked the progress to the recent inauguration of Alluri Sitarama Raju Bhogapuram Airport by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the government's continued focus on expanding aviation infrastructure in the state.

Connectivity push continues

India's civil aviation sector has witnessed significant expansion in recent years through the addition of new routes, airport upgrades and regional connectivity initiatives.

The launch of the Vijayawada-Varanasi service reflects ongoing efforts to improve access between key cities while supporting tourism and economic activity linked to air travel.

With multiple terminal projects approaching completion in Andhra Pradesh, the state is expected to see further improvements in passenger handling capacity and airport infrastructure in the coming months.