The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) on Monday wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar requesting the start of an air service between San Francisco in the US and Amritsar in Punjab.

In the letter, NAPA Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal highlighted that air connectivity plays a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting cultural, economic and social ties between nations. “While there are already numerous flights between various Indian cities and international destinations, the lack of a direct air connection between San Francisco and Amritsar has been a long-standing concern for the diaspora and business communities residing in both regions “, Chahal said.

San Francisco, in the heart of California, is a major hub for technology, innovation and entrepreneurship, he added.

Introducing direct flight service between San Francisco and Amritsar would also contribute to the growth of tourism, trade and investment by encouraging increased people-to-people contacts and fostering business partnerships, the executive director said of NAPA.

He also urged the Minister to consider initiating discussions with relevant authorities, including civil aviation authorities, airlines and airport authorities, to explore the feasibility and potential of launching flights between San Francisco and Amritsar.