Agartala/Silchar, Oct 27 : Direct flight services connecting Agartala in Tripura with Bagdogra in West Bengal will begin today, marking a major step forward in improving regional air connectivity across the northeastern region. The service, operated by Air India Express, will also restore the long-discontinued Agartala–Silchar route in southern Assam — resuming after almost three decades.
According to S. Haokip Jemu, Assistant General Manager of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Agartala, the new Agartala–Bagdogra service will operate from the Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport in Agartala starting Sunday. Bagdogra Airport, located near Siliguri in North Bengal, lies about 68 kilometres from the well-known tourist destination of Darjeeling.
“The air link between Agartala and Silchar will also resume from October 28 after nearly 30 years,” Jemu said, adding that flights will operate twice a week — every Tuesday and Friday.
The new routes are expected to significantly enhance travel convenience, trade, and tourism within the Northeast, linking Tripura, Assam, and West Bengal more closely. With challenging terrain often limiting road connectivity, the reintroduction of direct air services is seen as an important milestone under India’s regional connectivity initiative.
Officials believe that the improved connectivity will strengthen both economic and social ties between the states, giving residents faster and more affordable travel options.
