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Donyi Polo Airport (HGI)

TeamAckoFeb 26, 2025

Arunachal Pradesh is considered India's eastern treasure and has been revered for its landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The Donyi Polo Airport makes this region accessible and is a huge development in the region's connectivity and tourism. Locally known as the Itanagar Airport, it was opened at the end of 2022, marking a vital step in bringing this state closer to the rest of the world.

In this blog, we will go through some of the aspects of Donyi Polo Airport, starting from its key details and facilities, to nearby attractions and travel tips.

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Contents

Donyi Polo Airport Details
Donyi Polo Airport Terminal Information
Donyi Polo Airport Facilities
Things To Do at Donyi Polo Airport
Places to Visit Near Donyi Polo Airport
Final Words
FAQs About Donyi Polo Airport

Donyi Polo Airport Details

The Itanagar Airport is named "Donyi Polo", denoting the state's indigenous faith and reverence for the Sun ("Donyi") and the Moon ("Polo"). Therefore, it epitomises the harmonious existence of tradition and modernity, a characteristic deeply entrenched around every corner of Arunachal Pradesh. Here are the key facts about this airport:

Location: Hollongi, which is 15km away from Itanagar
Address: Donyi Polo Airport, Hollongi, Arunachal Pradesh 791123, India
IATA Code: HGI
Owner: Airports Authority of India (AAI)
Connectivity: Regular flights to cities such as Kolkata, Lilabari, Guwahati, and other regional centres.

Donyi Polo Airport Terminal Information

Itanagar Airport is an example of a smooth integration of modern infrastructure with sustainability and cultural heritage. Designed to serve functionality and passenger comfort, the terminal building of the airport marks a major milestone for Arunachal Pradesh in its economic development.

Below are some key features of the terminal building:

Passenger Terminal Size and Capacity: This terminal is designed to serve 300 passengers during peak hours and 200 passengers daily. Furthermore, it spreads over an area of around 4,100 square metres with a modular design to match the rising demands of passenger traffic.
Runway and Aircraft Capacity: Itanagar Airport has a 2,300-meter-long runway and is able to take in A320/B737 category aircraft, each with a carrying capacity of 180 passengers. Moreover, it is the first and nearest airport to Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh that has been designed for such operations.
Eco-Friendly Design: The terminal includes a rainwater harvesting system. Also, green landscaping surrounds the terminal supporting environmental sustainability.
Connectivity and Accessibility: The airport terminal is 25 km from Itanagar, to which the NH-415 four-lane road connects it.

Donyi Polo Airport Facilities

Following are some of the key facilities provided at the Itanagar Airport:

Passenger Facilities: High-speed Wi-Fi is offered to every traveller. The waiting area is spacious and comfortable, so you can easily wait here for long hours. Moreover, the food court offers local delicacies and international food, and retail shops have regional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Special Support: The airport has wheelchair assistance and priority boarding for the elderly and physically challenged.
Lost and Found: A lost and found counter exclusively caters to the recovery of lost articles.
Business Lounge: There is a luxury lounge at the Itanagar Airport, with comfortable seating, charging stations, and refreshments for travellers who want a more luxurious experience.
Transportation and Connectivity: Convenient transportation options are offered, including taxi services, car rentals, and local buses connecting the airport to nearby towns and tourist attractions. Also, this airport has ample parking space for private vehicles.
Safety and Security: Equipped with CCTV surveillance for 24/7 monitoring. Moreover, this airport has features like firefighting and alarm systems to ensure passenger safety.
Instrument Landing System (ILS): Supports night operations and low-visibility conditions with CAT-I systems. A Met Observation Centre aids flight operations with real-time weather data.
Other Facilities: For passengers, there are clean and well-kept washrooms, ATMs, and a medical aid station for emergencies at the Itanagar Airport. Also, a baggage handling system has been specifically allocated to facilitate easy luggage collection.

Things To Do at Donyi Polo Airport

The HGI Airport is relatively new, so it has modern facilities but they are not that many. Here are a few things to do at Donyi Polo Airport:

Enjoy the view: The airport is situated in a scenic area and there are hills and trees around. So, you can take pleasure in the views of the terminal building or on the airport grounds.
Grab a bite to eat: The airport has some food and beverage outlets where you can get a quick meal, tea, coffee, or snack.
Souvenirs: There are some shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs at the Itanagar Airport. Also, you can buy one as a memento for your trip to Arunachal Pradesh.
Relax in the lounge: You can relax in a cosy environment if you have access to the airport lounge. Read a good book which you have been meaning to finish for a long time while waiting at the airport.

Places to Visit Near Donyi Polo Airport

Following is a list of places to visit near Itanagar airport if you have some time to spare:

1. Itanagar

As the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar offers a glimpse into the state's culture and history. You can visit the Ita Fort which is a historical monument. Also, visit the Jawaharlal Nehru Museum where you can learn about the state's tribal heritage. Also, Ganga Lake-Gekar Sinyi-is a beautiful place for rest. Itanagar is also home to the State Museum, with local articles and traditions. Furthermore, the town offers a good base from which to explore the rest of the region and get to know the local flavour.

2. Naharlagun

It is a commercial town located approximately 15 kilometres from the Itanagar Airport. Here, you can interact with the locals and may visit local markets for various local produce and handicrafts. Also, it is a good base to explore more of Arunachal Pradesh as well. There is a lot of shopping going on in the markets of Naharlagun. Naharlagun is also a major crossing point connecting Itanagar with other districts.

Gompa Buddhist Temple

Situated near Itanagar, this Buddhist monastery is a peaceful abode with great views. It is an excellent place to experience the region's Buddhist culture and architecture. The Gompa often conducts religious ceremonies and festivals, which makes it a unique cultural experience. Furthermore, the serene environment makes it ideal for quiet contemplation and reflection.

3. Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary

For nature lovers, this is a great place to view various flora and fauna species. The sanctuary is an abode for several bird species, mammals, and reptiles. Here, people can see the wide diversity of Arunachal Pradesh. Also, there are trails for trekking if anyone wants to go deep inside the wild. It greatly helps in preserving the distinctive ecosystem of the region.

4. Chimpu

Chimpu, located a short drive from the Itanagar Airport, is known for its scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings. It is a great place for a day trip to enjoy nature and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Furthermore, Chimpu offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a popular spot for nature walks and photography.

Final Words

Overall, Donyi Polo Airport symbolises not just a new transportation hub but also marks a place of progress and connectivity to Arunachal Pradesh. It opens the gates to better tourism, more economic growth, and an exchange of culture with other parts of India. Whether you are travelling to discover the hidden jewels of Arunachal Pradesh or a local taking on new opportunities, Itanagar Airport stands ready to take you on the journey of discovery. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of this unique region.

FAQs About Donyi Polo Airport

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Itanagar Airport:

Are there direct flights from major metropolitan cities to Itanagar Airport?

Currently, Itanagar Airport primarily connects to regional hubs, such as Kolkata, Guwahati, and Lilabari. Also, connecting flights from major metropolitan cities can be accessed through these regional hubs.

What kinds of aircraft can the Itanagar Airport runway support?

The Itanagar Airport runway is able to support A320 and B737 category aircraft, which are the types of aircraft typically used for domestic flights and can carry around 180 passengers.