Imphal-Mandalay flight launched
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, November 23 2019:
In a historic move to boost air connectivity between Myan-mar and India, Myanmar's private carrier Air KBZ initiated its chartered flight service between Mandalay and Imphal today.
The inaugural flight, which departed from Mandalay, landed at the Bir Tikendrajit International Airport at around 11.30 am.
The maiden flight was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute.
Health and Family Welfare Minister L Jayanta- kumar, CAF&PD Minister Karam Shyam, Education Minister Th Radheshyam, Chief Secretary Dr J Suresh Babu, Chairman of Tourism Corporation Manipur Limited Dr Sapam Ranjan, Principal Secretary P Vaiphei, Director of Transport Department Mercina Panmei and others received the passengers with traditional lengyan (shawl) .
Speaking on the occasion, Education Minister Th Radheshyam said that the launching of the chartered flight service would enhance air connectivity with the neighbouring countries, specially with Myanmar.
The chartered flight will be operational thrice a week, he added.
The Minister further maintained that the State Government is persuading the Ministry of Civil Aviation to grant regular Imphal-Mandalay flight service.
Radheshyam informed that the first Air KBZ flight carried around 72 passengers from Myanmar and the return flight will depart Imphal with 48 passengers including five officials.
He appealed to the people of Manipur to support such noble initiative of the State Government.