North East Aviation Summit Highlights Connectivity Growth And Infrastructure Plans
Arunachal Pradesh became the focal point of India’s aviation ambitions this week as senior officials, policymakers, and industry leaders gathered for the North East Aviation Summit. The event highlighted how new airports, expanded connectivity, and public–private partnerships could redefine mobility in one of India’s most remote yet strategically vital regions.
Over the last decade, the North East has witnessed transformative growth in air infrastructure, with the number of operational airports nearly doubling. Enhanced aviation connectivity, officials stressed, is no longer a luxury but an essential driver of economic integration, tourism, trade, and regional equity. The rapid expansion has been powered by central schemes such as UDAN and increasing collaboration between the Centre, States, and industry stakeholders.
Officials at the summit underlined that improved air links are critical for integrating remote towns and border districts with the national economy. New and upgraded terminals, heliports, and regional aircraft services are expected to bridge geographical divides that have historically hindered access to markets, healthcare, and education. The newly inaugurated passenger terminal at the Donyl Polo Airport in Itanagar stands as a visible symbol of this ambition, with capacity to serve one million passengers annually.
Industry experts noted that while passenger traffic has tripled and aircraft movement has doubled since 2014, the region is yet to fully unlock its tourism and trade potential. With pristine landscapes, diverse cultures, and untapped horticultural and handicraft markets, the North East has a unique advantage in connecting with both domestic and global travellers. Enhanced cargo facilities, particularly for perishable goods, could generate fresh revenue streams while empowering local communities.
The summit also focused on sustainability, job creation, and equitable growth. Officials emphasised that expanding aviation must go hand-in-hand with skilling initiatives to equip local youth with employment-ready expertise in ground handling, hospitality, drone operations, and maintenance. Such an approach, experts argued, would prevent migration pressures and ensure that the benefits of connectivity flow back to local economies.
Discussions also centred on forward-looking plans, including greenfield airport feasibility studies and the development of heliports to support medical evacuation services in remote areas. These projects are expected to be accelerated under a policy-driven framework that encourages private investment while ensuring that sustainability remains at the core of aviation expansion.he conference concluded with a call for greater collaboration between states and the central government, underpinned by private sector participation. With India emerging as the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market, the North East’s integration is now seen as pivotal to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
