Guwahati to Become Regional Aviation Hub for Northeast India

Strategic Insights -

The Indian civil aviation ministry has initiated efforts to establish Guwahati as a regional aviation hub for the Northeast region. Aviation Minister Vayalar Ravi emphasized the importance of airports as a first impression of a country or state, stating that Guwahati will be the regional hub for aviation, with initiatives already underway. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is constructing two hangars in Guwahati and plans to develop 12 airports in the region. The ministry aims to develop 60 airports across the country through the AAI.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Indian civil aviation ministry is working to establish Guwahati as a regional aviation hub for the Northeast region.
  • Aviation Minister Vayalar Ravi stated that Guwahati will be the regional hub for aviation, with initiatives already underway.
  • The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is building two hangars in Guwahati to support the growth of aviation in the region.
  • Twelve airports will be developed in the region as part of the ministry's plans.
  • Air India plans to make Guwahati its base for all Northeast operations, covering remote areas in the Northeast and eastern regions.
  • Air India will introduce two types of planes, the CRJ-700 jets and turbo-prop ATRs, to enhance connectivity in the region.
  • The national carrier will establish a maintenance base and offer other services in Guwahati.
  • Currently, around 30 flights operate between Calcutta and places such as Agartala, Dimapur, and Aizwal.
  • Guwahati is expected to operate around 35 to 40 flights between different regions in the Northeast.

Statistics:

  • 60 airports are planned to be developed across the country by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) through the civil aviation ministry initiatives.
  • 12 airports will be developed in the Northeast region as part of the ministry's plans.
  • 30 flights currently operate between Calcutta and places such as Agartala, Dimapur, and Aizwal.
  • Guwahati is expected to operate around 35 to 40 flights between different regions in the Northeast.
  • The construction of a new modular terminal building at Shillong airport cost Rs 30 crore and covers an area of 5,900 sq meters.

Sources:

  • "Civil Aviation Ministry Initiates Step to Make Guwahati a Hub," by OUR CORRESPONDENT, New Delhi, June 27, from Contify.com.