Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia virtually flagged off the first direct flight on the Shillong – Dibrugarh route under Regional Connectivity Scheme – Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (RCS-UDAN). Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Scindia said, Shillong is one of the highest and wettest places in the world and the place is important not only for the country but for the entire world. He said in 2014, only six airports were operational in North East which has now risen to 15 airports. He added that the Centre is further committed to enhancing the inter-state and intra-state connectivity of the North-East.
Shillong is surrounded by hills from all sides and due to the non-availability of any direct mode of transportation, people were compelled to cover a long 12-hour journey by road & train. Two cities can be covered in 75 mins by flight.
