Fewer flights in Bir-Billing as paragliding season begins
Bir-Billing skies see fewer flights as paragliding season resumes
Dharamshala: After a two-month break during the monsoon, paragliding activities at Bir-Billing in Himachal Pradesh have resumed. However, the season has started slowly this year due to a lower number of tourists, particularly foreign visitors. Normally, this period witnesses a rush of paragliding enthusiasts from across India and abroad.
Every year, paragliding in Himachal is paused from July 15 to September 15 to avoid accidents during the monsoon season. This year, flights at Bir-Billing restarted on September 21, but the skies are far less crowded than usual.
According to the Billing Paragliding Association (BPA), only 50-60 flights are taking place daily, compared to hundreds that usually happen at this time of year. Tourist numbers are low, and the activity has not yet reached its typical pace.
Anurag Sharma, president of the BPA, said, “At this time, we normally see hundreds of flights every day. This year, operations are at just 20% of normal levels. Tourist numbers are low, and very few foreigners and solo flyers are coming.”
Tourist turnout affects paragliding activities
The paragliding sector had already been experiencing a slowdown even before the monsoon due to fewer visitors after Operation Sindoor in May. Raj Kumar Sippy, a senior paragliding pilot with BPA, explained that advance bookings for flights, especially around the Dussehra festival, have not been made as they usually are.
“Normally, after September 15, there is a surge of tourists, and many flights are booked in advance for Dussehra. This year, the situation is very different,” Sippy said. He added that since May, the paragliding business has been slow, and there has been no significant improvement.
The BPA hopes that with the festive season approaching, tourist numbers will rise, which could improve the pace of paragliding activities. Sharma said, “The skies over Billing used to be filled with paragliders at this time of year, but now only a few can be seen. We are hopeful that the upcoming festivals will bring more tourists and boost business.”
Bir-Billing, known for its excellent thermals and stunning views, is a top destination for paragliding in India and the world. Thousands of enthusiasts visit each year to experience the thrill of flying over the scenic valleys. The site is also famous for hosting international events, including the second Paragliding World Cup in November last year, following the first in 2015.
Impact of Operation Sindoor and slow recovery
Tourism in the region had already been affected by Operation Sindoor, which took place in May. The operation led to reduced visitor footfall, and local businesses, including paragliding operators, have struggled to recover since then. The situation has had a direct impact on the number of flights at Bir-Billing.
Sharma explained that normally, during this season, the skies are busy with paragliders, and advance bookings are made well in advance. However, this year, fewer tourists are visiting, and many flights remain unbooked. The operators hope that as the festive season progresses, interest in paragliding will increase, bringing more tourists and revenue.
Bir-Billing’s reputation as a premier paragliding site stems from its ideal weather conditions, thermal winds, and breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar ranges. The area attracts both domestic and international tourists, and it has played a significant role in promoting adventure tourism in Himachal Pradesh.
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Despite the slow start, paragliding operators remain optimistic. They continue to follow safety measures and prepare for an increase in flights during the upcoming peak season. The BPA has also highlighted that the popularity of Bir-Billing remains strong, and once tourist numbers pick up, the activity is expected to return to normal levels.
Paragliding in Bir-Billing offers not just adventure but also opportunities for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transport services. The sector supports many livelihoods, and a good season is important for the local economy.
In conclusion, while the paragliding season at Bir-Billing has started slowly due to fewer tourists and the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, operators are hopeful. With the festive season around the corner and the natural appeal of the site, paragliding is expected to pick up soon. Enthusiasts can look forward to safe flights and stunning views as the season progresses.
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