Guwahati: Nagaland’s Government has officially appointed Air India Express as the travel partner for the Hornbill Festival 2025, aiming to improve air connectivity and enhance the state’s flagship cultural event.
The announcement took place on Monday at the airline’s headquarters in Gurugram, where Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), and Aloke Singh, Managing Director of Air India Express, jointly unveiled the partnership.
Welcoming the collaboration, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio described it as a timely initiative that will improve the visitor experience and promote the state’s cultural heritage to a broader audience.
He emphasized that the partnership supports the vision of nation-building while creating opportunities for tourism, cultural exchange, and economic growth in the “Land of Festivals.”
Air India Express announced a 15% discount on direct and one-stop flights to Dimapur for bookings made between November 20 and 30.
The offer, applicable for travel from November 20 to December 15, can be availed using the promo code HORNBILL.
Under the partnership, the airline will also manage travel arrangements for participating artists and event organisers. Additionally, Air India Express will launch a Hornbill Experience Kiosk at Dimapur Airport to welcome festival visitors.
Singh highlighted that the initiative aligns with the airline’s ‘Tales of India’ cultural engagement program, which seeks to showcase India’s indigenous art forms and elevate the travel experience.
“The Hornbill Festival embodies Nagaland’s vibrant culture and artistic heritage. Through ‘Tales of India,’ we aim to celebrate these traditions while enhancing the journey for every visitor,” Singh said.
Scheduled from December 1 to 10 at Kisama, the Hornbill Festival is Nagaland’s largest cultural celebration, uniting all Naga tribes in a showcase of music, dance, crafts, and cuisine. Hailed as the “Festival of Festivals,” it draws thousands of domestic and international tourists every year.