Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Saturday flagged off Air India Express’s newly inducted Boeing 737-8 aircraft featuring the Ao Naga Tsungkotepsu warrior shawl livery at Dimapur Airport.

On the occasion, Rio said Nagaland is pleased to welcome Air India Express with a special Tsungkotepsu themed livery as the tourist partner for Nagaland Tourism and with Hornbill Festival. This collaboration marks an important step in strengthening connectivity, enhancing the visitors’ experience and to showcase Nagaland to the rest of the country and also to the world, he said.

According to a DIPR report, the chief minister remarked that it is “an endeavour undertaking”, a corporate partnership and the state looks forward that the collaboration would carry forward in nation building, creating greater opportunities for tourism, cultural exchange and economic growth.

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Rio was accompanied by minister for Rural Development & SIRD Metsubo Jamir, MLA and advisor Tribal Affairs and Election H Tovihoto Aye and MLA and advisor for Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan.

Managing Director of Air India Express, Aloke Singh expressed that it is an honour to partner with the government of Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival 2025. He said the Tsungkotepsu livery on the new aircraft VT BWD is a tribute to Nagaland’s artistic legacy.

“Today’s ceremony reflects the state’s creativity, energy and cultural pride, we look forward to welcoming guest from across India to explore more of Nagaland and participation in the Hornbill Festivities this year,” he stated.

It may be mentioned that, in order to encourage the travellers during the festive season, Air India Express is extending 15% discount for booking from or to Dimapur made till December 10 this year, applicable for travel till December 15 using the promo code ‘HORNBILL’ on the airline’s website and mobile app.