IAF’s Winter Lifeline Returns As AN-32 Kargil Courier Service Reconnects Ladakh; 82 Passengers Airlifted On Day 1
The Sadbhavna Movement to evacuate needy passengers from Kargil to Srinagar was successfully carried out at Srinagar Airport. Image courtesy: RNA
As extreme winter conditions cut off road access to Ladakh, the Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday (February 7, 2026) resumed the AN-32 Kargil Courier Service for the season, restoring a crucial humanitarian air bridge between Kargil and Srinagar. The service ensures uninterrupted connectivity for civilians during months when heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures isolate the region.
For thousands of residents, the IAF-run air service remains the only reliable link to the rest of the country through winter. Beyond its core defence role, the IAF’s winter courier operations are a key example of military-led humanitarian assistance. The service primarily benefits elderly people, patients requiring specialised medical treatment in Srinagar and Jammu, students travelling for education, and families.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) on Monday (February 9, 2026) informed that the movement of needy passengers from Kargil to Srinagar and from Srinagar to Kargil was successfully carried out under the Sadbhavna Movement. “This humanitarian operation was made possible through seamless coordination between the AAI, IAF, Government of UT of Jammu & Kashmir, and Government of UT of Ladakh.”
IAF Kargil Courier Service: Who received the IAF crew in Kargil and Srinagar?
The IAF crew received a warm welcome in Kargil from Executive Councillor Kacho Mohd Feroz of LAHDC Kargil, Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Kumar, Additional Deputy Commissioner Imteeaz Kacho, and Assistant Commissioner Development Shafiq Ahmed.
In Srinagar, the crew was received by Chief Coordinator of the Kargil Courier Service Aamir Ali, Airport Director Javed Anjum, officials of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), and other airport authorities.
Local civil authorities acknowledged that the service is a lifeline for those with urgent medical, educational and humanitarian needs.
How was the passenger movement on day 1?
On the opening day of winter operations, 29 passengers were airlifted from Kargil to Srinagar, 53 passengers, including children and infants, travelled from Srinagar to Kargil, The figures underline the steady demand for the service at the very start of the winter season.
The Deputy Commissioner of Kargil, along with senior district officials, inspected arrangements at Kargil Airport, reviewing security, frisking, ticket verification, baggage scanning and boarding procedures. Officials were directed to ensure safe, smooth and efficient operations throughout the winter. The IAF operates the AN-32 aircraft in challenging weather and high-altitude conditions, showcasing its expertise in precision flying under extreme environments.
