Manoj Singh, Itanagar, Aug 31: IndiGo Airlines has announced a new flight route connecting Itanagar with New Delhi, with nonstop flights four times a week, starting from October 2nd, 2023. The flight will operate between Donyi Polo Airport (HGI) in Itanagar and Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi. This significant development fulfills a long-standing demand of both Hollongi Airport passengers and the people of Arunachal Pradesh to have a direct flight connection to the national capital.
Arunachal Pradesh’s Secretary for Civil Aviation and Tourism, Swapnil Naik, shared this news and expressed his joy over the realization of this important connection. The first flight will depart from New Delhi at 12:00 PM and return at 12:30 PM on October 2nd. Bookings for the flights have already begun. The service operates under the UDAN scheme, which may impose certain fare restrictions.
The inauguration of Donyi Polo Greenfield Airport in Hollongi marked a significant milestone for the aviation industry in Arunachal Pradesh. Since its inauguration on November 19, flights have been operational, including an IndiGo flight to Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi, as well as an ATR-72 flight by Flybig Airlines to Guwahati. Additionally, the state government operates three helicopters that serve remote areas inaccessible by regular airports.
The state government is also pursuing a proposal for a helicopter ambulance service in collaboration with the health department, aiming to provide patient services and evacuations. The new flight route between Itanagar and New Delhi will provide convenient access to the national capital, benefiting numerous travelers.
The ongoing progress of airport infrastructure in various regions, including Tezu, Tuting, Walong, and Mechuka, indicates an upcoming expansion of air travel options in the state. With over 1,200 landings and takeoffs at Hollongi Airport and approximately 91,000 people benefiting from the airport, this connectivity development holds great significance for the region’s growth.