In a significant development aimed at streamlining air travel, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (LGBI) Airport, the largest airport in the northeast region, inaugurated the Digi Yatra initiative on August 29, 2023.

This innovative system marks a pioneering step for hassle-free travel and convenience, making LGBI Airport the first in the northeast to embrace this digital transformation.

The launch of Digi Yatra was met with enthusiasm by the people of Assam and the entire northeast.

The LGBI Airport unveiled the Digi Yatra system in close partnership with the Adani Group and the Civil Aviation Department to streamline the check-in procedure, which has historically involved formalities and long lines.

Assam Minister Chandramohan Patowary conveyed the significance of this development to the press, stating, "This is excellent news for the residents of Assam and the northeast."

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"The introduction of Digi Yatra at LGBI Airport, with the support of the Civil Aviation Department and in collaboration with the Adani Group, is a game-changer," he added.

"Previously, the check-in process involved numerous procedures and waiting times. However, this new system will usher inconvenience for passengers. While several major airports have already adopted Digi Yatra, LGBI Airport proudly becomes the pioneer in the northeast to implement this revolutionary solution," the minister added.

Highlighting the broader advancements within the aviation sector, Civil Aviation Secretary Rajeev Bansal remarked that ongoing developmental efforts are underway, with more such initiatives set to emerge shortly.

"The aviation landscape is witnessing the inauguration of new airports and the commencement of fresh flight routes. Digi Yatra is an innovative concept introduced by the Civil Aviation Department, marked by incorporating of facial recognition technology linked to Aadhaar. This technology is being introduced in three stages, starting at Guwahati airport. With Digi Yatra, seamless access will be granted at various checkpoints, ensuring a hassle-free journey," NDTV reported quoting Bansal.

Utpal Baruah, Chief Airport Officer (CAO) of LGBI Airport, explained the simple process for passengers to leverage the Digi Yatra system.

"Passengers must download the Digi Yatra app and upload their photograph, which will be linked with their Aadhaar details. We are extremely pleased with this advancement, as it introduces a novel dimension to the civil aviation sector,"he affirmed.

This pioneering initiative is poised to extend to six additional airports across the country, signalling a promising expansion of its implementation.

The gradual integration and deployment of this new digital infrastructure within airports are expected to enhance air travel's efficiency and comfort significantly.

Notably, LGBI Airport reported a 15 per cent increase in passenger traffic in June of this year, with five lakh travellers passing through its gates.

As air travel continues to evolve with innovative solutions like Digi Yatra, LGBI Airport's pioneering move is set to transform the travel experience for passengers across the region and beyond.