Make way (or runway!) for the newest airport in town!
Yes, Hollongi Airport in Itanagar is the latest in line of many new small airports in India. It will connect Arunachal Pradesh with proper air connectivity with the rest of India.
The Significance of Hollongi Airport
Arunachal Pradesh is in the farthest corners of northeast India. It has been largely inaccessible due to its hilly terrain. It also borders China and certain parts of the state are volatile and under heavy army protection.
But the lack of connectivity has been the major reason for the slow tourism in the state. Now, with a Greenfield Airport coming up in Itanagar, the state’s capital; tourists from far and wide can visit it easily. Yes, Hollongi is part of the Greenfield project of the government and thus likely to be run well.
The Hollongi Airport Project
The location of the airport is some 15 km south of the capital. It has a runway of 2300 m and eight check-in counters. The terminal area is around 4100 sq m. It is built over some 685 acres.
It is a small airport with the capacity to accommodate up to 200 passengers. It will be managed by airports authority of India (AAI). As per the Greenfield Airport plans; it will be run via renewable energy. It will have a rainwater harvesting system in place.
Hollongi Airport has the facility for night landing. The signage at the airport will also be in the local Nyishi dialect along with English. The airport design includes a glass façade. It is the first full-fledged (with complete operational facilities) airport in the state. Its IATA code is HGI and proper name Donyi Polo Airport.
The foundation stone for this new small airport in India was laid on 9th February, 2019. There were some construction delays due to COVID-19. But Hollongi Airport is now all set for its inaugural passenger flight on 15th August this year.
A Note of Arunachal Pradesh Tourism:
Arunachal Pradesh is a no less a paradise. Its landscape is nothing short of magical. The sun’s rays first grace this land in India. 500 and more rare orchid species further beautify this state. It is the perfect destination for rejuvenating not only the physical but the spirit too.
So, what are the places to see in Arunachal Pradesh? The towns of Tawang, Ziro, Tezu, and of course the capital city Itanagar are a must-see in the state. Visit Pasighat town for adventure activities. Sela Pass, Sangti Valley, and Nuranang Falls are famous tourist spots in Arunachal Pradesh.
Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary is mainly a tiger reserve. But it is also home to elephants and leopards along with other wildlife. It is perfect for nature walks. Namdapha National Park is the place to spot red panda in India (one of few in the country) and one of the top biodiversity sites in the country.
The mighty Brahmaputra is known as Dihang (or Siang) here and you cannot visit the state and give it a miss. Arunachal Pradesh is one of the best destinations for ecotourism in India.
Now, with a full-fledged airport in the state, planning a trip here is easier than ever. This and other small airports in India are likely to be a boost for country’s tourism industry.
You can book flights to India via Indian Eagle and explore this corner of the country easily. Hollongi Airport is likely to have connectivity with Kolkata, Delhi, and other big cities. So, it is convenient to plan your travel to Arunachal Pradesh.
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