How have airports, aircraft, and passengers doubled in 11 years of NDA governance?
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Synopsis
In a significant development for civil aviation, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu announced that under NDA governance, the aviation sector has seen remarkable growth, with airports, aircraft, and passengers doubling in 11 years. This transformation is further highlighted by the inauguration of the new Donyi Polo Airport terminal, enhancing connectivity in Arunachal Pradesh.
Key Takeaways
- Significant growth in civil aviation under NDA with doubled airports, aircraft, and passengers.
- New terminal at Donyi Polo Airport enhances connectivity in Arunachal Pradesh.
- UDAN scheme supports unviable routes, boosting regional connectivity.
- Innovative passenger initiatives launched to improve travel experience.
- Increased flight frequencies to major hubs like Delhi.
Itanagar, Sep 4 (NationPress) The Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, highlighted on Thursday that the NDA administration, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has significantly advanced the civil aviation sector, witnessing a doubling in the number of airports, aircraft, and passengers over the past 11 years.
During the inauguration of the new terminal at Donyi Polo Airport in Hollongi, located in the Papum Pare district of Arunachal Pradesh, the minister emphasized the government's commitment to enhancing connectivity in the northeast region.
The launch of the new terminal represents a transformative moment for civil aviation in both the northeast and Arunachal Pradesh, marking a significant milestone for the local populace, as operations commence in the new facility.
He acknowledged that the completion of this long-awaited project was achieved with the guidance of Chief Minister Pema Khandu and the collaborative efforts of both the Arunachal Pradesh and Central governments.
Plans are in motion to further enhance connectivity, including the establishment of heliports in the state, as part of the renewed UDAN scheme aimed at boosting domestic travel by supporting airlines on previously unviable routes.
Naidu also revealed that the government is working towards providing free Wi-Fi for both domestic and international travelers, along with installing additional charging stations and workstations.
The inauguration and the Northeastern Ministerial Conference held in Itanagar are viewed as crucial steps in enhancing the collaboration between the Central government and northeastern states to tackle pressing development challenges.
The revised scheme will particularly focus on improving air connectivity to all northeastern states, mountainous regions, and aspirational districts.
An official noted that several new passenger-centric initiatives have also been implemented at the airport, including the UDAN Yatri Cafe for affordable food and beverages, a library initiative for book exchanges, the AVASAR initiative supporting local women’s groups, and a new children’s store for families traveling through the airport. These initiatives aim to enhance the overall passenger experience.
Holongi Airport, which commenced operations in 2022, is part of a series of airport developments in the state, including those in Pasighat, Tezu, and Ziro.
The new terminal at Donyi Polo Airport boasts a pre-cover capacity of 800 passengers, capable of accommodating up to 1.5 million travelers annually, a notable increase from the previous temporary facility with a limit of 150 passengers.
To further enhance connectivity, the frequency of flights to Delhi is set to increase from four to seven days a week starting September 17, with daily flights operated by Indigo connecting Itanagar to a major hub.
Currently, Donyi Polo Airport connects to Guwahati, Kolkata, and Tezu.
Chief Minister Khandu, along with state officials, attended the event. In a post on X, Khandu expressed that the new terminal offers more than just a travel gateway, featuring cafes for relaxation and recharging, retail spaces showcasing local artisans, a children’s play area, and walls adorned with paintings reflecting the tribal culture of Arunachal Pradesh.
Additionally, the Flybrary, a 'Take-a-Book' program, allows passengers to borrow books about Arunachal’s tribes and culture, enriching their journey with stories and connections to the land.
Point of View
It is clear that the advancements in civil aviation under the NDA government reflect a commitment to enhancing infrastructure and connectivity across India. This growth not only serves the immediate needs of travelers but also contributes to the broader economic and social development of the northeastern states. The efforts to improve passenger experiences through innovative initiatives at airports underscore a forward-thinking approach that is essential for national progress.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What improvements have been made in India's civil aviation sector under NDA?
Under NDA governance, the civil aviation sector has seen a doubling of airports, aircraft, and passengers in the last 11 years, emphasizing enhanced connectivity, especially in the northeastern region.
What is the significance of the new terminal at Donyi Polo Airport?
The new terminal at Donyi Polo Airport marks a significant milestone for Arunachal Pradesh, improving capacity and connectivity, and enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers.
How does the UDAN scheme contribute to air connectivity?
The UDAN scheme aims to boost domestic air travel by supporting airlines on routes that were previously unviable, facilitating greater connectivity across India, including in the northeast.
What new initiatives are being introduced at airports?
New initiatives include the UDAN Yatri Cafe, a library program for book exchanges, and the AVASAR initiative, which supports local women’s groups, all designed to enhance the passenger experience.
How are flight frequencies changing for Itanagar?
Starting September 17, the frequency of flights from Itanagar to Delhi will increase from four to seven days a week, providing better travel options for passengers.
