Sightseeing chopper rides launched ahead of Hornbill Festival 2025

DIMAPUR — Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along on Tuesday flagged off the Aerial Experience helicopter service for the Hornbill Festival 2025 at the Lerie helipad in Kohima.

The introduction of the aerial rides comes as preparations intensify for the Hornbill Festival, which begins December 1.

The service, initiated by Thumby Aviation Pvt. Ltd. in collaboration with the Tourism department, aims to enhance visitor experience by offering aerial tours around Kohima, views of Dzükou Valley, short flights between Kohima and Kigwema, and an overhead glimpse of the festival grounds at Kisama. Tourists will also be able to charter the helicopter for travel to destinations across Nagaland.

Advisor to the Chief Minister and IDAN Chairman Abu Metha, TaFMA Chairman Theja Meru, Transport department OSD Myingthungo Ababe Ezung, pilot Capt. Amitabh and officials of the Tourism department were present at the launch, according to a DIPR update.

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The update stated that the subsidised rates are intended to make the service accessible to local visitors as well as domestic and international tourists. Officials said the partnership with Thumby Aviation is expected to serve as a model for similar tourism initiatives across the Northeast.

The helicopter service will operate from Dimapur Airport, Kohima Heliport and Kigwema Heliport during the festival. Bookings can be made through the Tourism department’s social media platforms, the information counter at Kisama, the department’s official website or designated contact numbers.