Relentless efforts of the State Government  to place Sikkim in the civil aviation map of world  bore the fruit when the Centre conceded  demand by granting Rs.50 crores. The State Government is particularly grateful to the  Former Prime Minister of India, Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee,  for his on the spot sanction of  Rs. 110 crores as central assistance towards the construction of an airport at Pakyong, during his visit to the State in April 2003.

The Government of India has been kind enough to subsidise the operational cost of the lone helicopter service operating in the State.  However in view of the limited seating capacity of the helicopter and considering the tremendous demand for additional heli-services, the State Government has initiated construction of seven helipads in various parts of the State in order to extend the heli-services to access the interior areas.  This is in keeping with the increasing trend in tourist traffic and also the renewed thrust accorded by the Government towards promotion of the tourism industry.  To cater to these special needs, the demand for special assistance for procurement of three numbers of helicopters of 14 seater capacity has been made.