PM Inaugurates Northeast’s First Emergency Landing Facility in Assam | 18 Feb 2026

Why in News? 

The Prime Minister inaugurated the first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) of India’s Northeast region in Dibrugarh, Assam in February 2026. 

Key Points: 

• First of Its Kind: This is the Northeast’s first dedicated Emergency Landing Facility, positioning Dibrugarh as a key hub for disaster management and aviation operations in the region. 
  • This facility is crucial for strengthening the region’s ability to handle emergency situations by offering a dedicated landing site for relief aircraft. 
  • The Emergency Landing Facility will allow quick landing and take-off of aircraft during crises such as floods, earthquakes, or other emergencies, reducing response time and saving lives. 
• Regional Connectivity: The facility may support improved connectivity and facilitate operations by civil and defence aviation in the Upper Assam and neighbouring areas.  
  • This can be used by both civil and defence aircraft, improving operational synergy during emergencies and security situations. 
• Supports Infrastructure: The project reflects the Government’s continued focus on expanding critical infrastructure in the Northeast region. 
  • The facility adds to the aviation ecosystem of Assam, enhancing its emergency preparedness capacity.