Is North-East's highway becoming a runway? PM Modi to land on Feb 14
Synopsis
The Indian Air Force is set to inaugurate a pioneering emergency landing facility on a highway in Dibrugarh, Assam, enhancing national security. Prime Minister Modi will officiate the launch, marking a significant milestone for the North-East's combat readiness. This facility aims to strengthen the IAF's operational capabilities amidst evolving security challenges.
Key Takeaways
First emergency landing facility in the North-East.
Located on a strategic highway in Assam.
Inauguration by Prime Minister Modi .
Enhancing IAF's combat preparedness .
28 such facilities operational across India.
New Delhi, Feb 12 (NationPress) In a historic move aimed at enhancing the combat readiness of the North-East, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is preparing to activate a new emergency landing facility located on a four-lane highway in Moran, Dibrugarh, Assam, on Saturday, according to officials.
This 4.2-km segment of the National Highway has been transformed into an emergency landing strip and is positioned near the Line of Actual Control (LAC), providing the IAF with strategic advantages and adaptability during emergencies.
The runway's inauguration will be officiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking the launch of the first emergency landing facility in the North-East intended for the landings of IAF aircraft, including the Rafales and Sukhois.
As per sources, the Prime Minister is expected to personally land on this emergency airstrip on Saturday aboard an Air Force C-130J Super Hercules.
On Thursday, the IAF conducted a successful trial landing of fighter jets on the highway airstrip, with several aircraft, including a Dornier, Sukhoi, and Rafale, taking off from the site.
Three Sukhois executed a flypast before landing individually, followed by a similar display from three Rafales. Additionally, the IAF's AN-32 transport aircraft performed a touch-and-go maneuver.
Importantly, the Air Force has been ramping up its combat preparedness in anticipation of potential two-front conflicts.
The establishment of emergency landing facilities across highways nationwide has been expedited for this purpose.
Currently, 28 such emergency landing facilities are operational, including five in Assam, four in West Bengal, and others spread across various states.
These emergency landing strips are primarily being constructed along national highways, with several already completed and formally inaugurated. State governments are also working on similar projects on state highways.
A noteworthy event took place on November 16, 2021, when Prime Minister Modi officially opened an airstrip on the Purvanchal Expressway by landing there in a C-130J Super Hercules.
Point of View
This initiative symbolizes a decisive step towards strengthening India's defense capabilities in the North-East. The establishment of emergency landing facilities not only enhances operational readiness but also signifies the government's commitment to national security. In the face of potential challenges, these efforts reflect a proactive approach by the Indian Air Force.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the emergency landing facility?
The emergency landing facility is designed to enhance the Indian Air Force's operational capabilities, providing a strategic location for aircraft landings during emergencies.
Where is the new landing facility located?
The new emergency landing facility is located on a four-lane highway in Moran, Dibrugarh, Assam, near the Line of Actual Control.
Who will inaugurate the facility?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officiate the inauguration of the emergency landing facility.
What types of aircraft can use this facility?
The facility will be used for landing various IAF aircraft, including Rafales and Sukhois.
How many emergency landing facilities are operational in India?
Currently, there are 28 operational emergency landing facilities across India.
