Northeast Desk, 26th December: Arunachal Pradesh’s aviation sector achieves a significant milestone as the Donyi Polo Airport in Itanagar is granted an all-weather license by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Chief Minister Pema Khandu announces this pivotal development, allowing night landings at the airport and advancing seamless air connectivity for the northeastern state.
Inaugurated on November 19, 2022, the Donyi Polo Airport, located in Hollongi within the Papum Pare district, stands at an elevation of 328 feet above mean sea level. With an investment exceeding Rs 640 crore, the airport features a 2,300-meter runway suitable for all-weather operations and a modern terminal building emphasizing energy efficiency and sustainable design.
As the third operational airport in Arunachal Pradesh, alongside Tezu and Pasighat Airports, the all-weather license for Donyi Polo Airport facilitates flights beyond daytime hours. This development is expected to enhance connectivity, potentially boosting trade, tourism, and economic growth in the region.
The expansion of aviation activities in the northeast is evident, with several states witnessing inaugural flights in recent years. Since 2014, aircraft movement in the northeast has surged by 113%, indicating robust growth in the aviation network. The all-weather license for Donyi Polo Airport signifies a commitment to bridging distances and integrating Arunachal Pradesh more closely with the rest of the country and the world.