Nagaland Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio Flagged off Air India Express, a newly inducted Boeing 737-8 aircraft featuring a livery Tsungkotepsu warrior shawl at Dimapur Airport on 22nd October 2025.

Rio, while inaugurating the selfie point at Dimapur airport, stated that 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.

It is an endeavour undertaking, a corporate partnership and we look forward that our collaboration will carry forward in nation building and together we aim to pay greater opportunities for tourism, cultural exchange and economic growth including Nagaland the land of festival, Rio said.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Minister for Rural Development & SIRD, Metsubo Jamir; Advisor of Tribal Affairs and Election, H Tovihoto Aye and Advisor for Agriculture, Mhathung Yanthan.

Managing Director of Air India Express, Aloke Singh said we are honoured to partner with the government of Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival 2025. He said Tsungkotepsu livery on our new aircraft VT BWD is our tribute to Nagaland artistic legacy, and 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.

It may be mentioned that to encourage the travellers during the festive season, Air India Express is extending 15% discount for booking from or to Dimapur made till 10 Dec 2025, applicable for travel till 15 Dec 2025 using the promo code 'HORNBILL' on the airline website and mobile app.

(Vihepu, IA Niuland)