Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday carried out a landmark landing at the Northeast’s first Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) in Assam, arriving aboard a C-130J aircraft in the Dibrugarh district. After reaching the Chabua airfield, he flew to the newly developed ELF located at Moran on a reinforced stretch of National Highway-37.

The Rs 100-crore facility, a 4.2-km strengthened section of the Moran Bypass inaugurated by the Prime Minister, is designed to function as a strategic runway for Indian Air Force fighter jets and transport aircraft. Officials said the ELF will enhance defence preparedness, logistics, and disaster response capabilities. It is also intended for dual civil and military use and can serve as an emergency alternative to Dibrugarh airport when required.

Modi was welcomed at the site by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, and other state cabinet members. Following his landing, the Prime Minister travelled to a nearby venue, where he observed an aerial demonstration by fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. He also greeted the large gathering that had assembled to witness the historic occasion.

During the ceremony, Modi was honoured with traditional Assamese symbols, including a Muga gamosa and Japi, and was presented with a portrait of Queen Sati Sadhini along with a commemorative memento from the Air Chief Marshal. Sarma later posted on X that the Prime Minister’s visit marked another milestone in Assam’s progress and development.

Modi had formally inaugurated the ELF during his one-day visit to the state. The Indian Air Force conducted a 20-minute aerial exercise showcasing precise take-offs and landings. Sukhoi-30 MKI and Rafale fighter jets led the display, while transport aircraft carried out touch-and-go manoeuvres. Multiple formations flew over Moran, with some aircraft landing and others performing overshoot drills.

Indigenous Advanced Light Helicopters demonstrated special heli-borne operations by deploying commandos at the airstrip, followed by simulated rescue and medical evacuation missions. Chief Minister Sarma noted that this was the first large-scale operational exercise at such a facility in the Northeast, involving around 16 participating aircraft.