First direct flight launched on Shillong-Dibrugarh route

Minister of Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya M Scindia launched the first direct flight on the Shillong-Dibrugarh route under the regional connectivity scheme—Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (RCS-UDAN) of the centre. Scindia told the media that Shillong is one of the highest and wettest regions in the world. The area is vital not only for the nation but for the whole world. Shillong has always been called Scotland of the East because of the presence of caves, rolling hills, beautiful landscapes, tallest waterfalls and its rich heritage and culture. There is nothing that Meghalaya does not have to give. The area attracts tourists from all over the globe. The minister further highlighted that in 2014, only six airports were operational in the North East, which increased to 15 airports in 2021. Within a short term of 7 years, they have reached this ambitious goal. He ensured that they are further committed to improving the interstate and intrastate connectivity of the North-East. Apart from developing flight connectivity, they aim to enhance the infrastructure capabilities and helicopter services for the last mile delivery. To guarantee that they recently began the Helicopter policy to further boost Heli Services in the North-East. They want to attract travellers from all over the nation to the North-East. Indigo was granted the Shillong - Dibrugarh route during the UDAN 4 bidding process. The airline will use its 78-seater ATR 72 aircraft. To date, 389 routes, and 62 airports (including five heliports and two water aerodromes) have been operationalised under the UDAN scheme. Image SourceAlso read: Kerala govt prioritises Sabarimala airport project