Shillong—In a pivotal address at the sixth Helicopter and Small Aircraft Summit 2024, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma emphasized the transformative role of air connectivity in the Northeast region’s development.
Opening the summit, Sangma underscored how enhanced air travel can drive progress across key sectors, including tourism, trade, and healthcare.
“Air travel is vital for achieving the diverse goals that Meghalaya is pursuing, particularly in overcoming connectivity challenges,” Sangma remarked. He highlighted Shillong as an ideal venue for the summit, given the Northeast’s terrain, which necessitates small aircraft and helicopter travel for efficient transportation and socio-economic activities.
Sangma called on stakeholders to consider the broader potential of regional air connectivity beyond India, extending into South Asia. He noted that destinations like Dhaka and Bangkok are closer to Shillong than the national capital, making the region a strategic hub for cross-border connectivity. “If we expand our vision to the Act East Zone, we unlock possibilities to boost tourism, medical assistance, trade, logistics, and other critical sectors,” he said.
Meghalaya’s government, Sangma added, is committed to building a vibrant aviation ecosystem by supporting and optimizing various sectors. “From delivering medicines to enhancing logistics, a strong aviation network can bring grassroots transformation,” he explained.
The chief minister also expressed optimism about the UDAN Scheme’s latest initiatives, including seaplanes and helicopter routes, which he described as game-changers for the Northeast. “What would once take 20 hours by road can now be completed in a fraction of the time with UDAN, creating faster, more accessible connections across the region,” he added.
Sangma extended his gratitude to Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu for advancing aviation opportunities in Meghalaya, positioning the state for a stronger economic future.