Yangon Aerodrome Company Limited (“YACL”), the operator of Yangon International Airport (“YIA”), successfully concluded its inaugural roadshow in Kolkata on June 14 to enhance air links between Myanmar and India – two countries which enjoy rich historical and cultural ties. The one-day roadshow at the JW Marriot Hotel jointly organized by YACL and Indian airline operator IndiGo attracted participants from the aviation and hospitality industries, including delegates from Myanmar Tourism Marketing. The roadshow was organized after the Myanmar government granted visas-on-arrival to Indian passport holders in 2018.
Between January and April 2019, 13,906 Indian nationals travelled by air to Myanmar through YIA, 6% more compared to 13,118 in the same period in 2018. Mr. Ho Chee Tong, Chief Executive Officer of YACL, said: “We wish to thank our partners and participants for the successful conclusion of today’s event. Their participation and strong support bode well for the aviation ties between the two countries.”
“As the busiest air gateway to Myanmar, YIA continues to improve its operations to meet the rising demand for air travel. We look forward to working closely with various stakeholders in the aviation and tourism industries to open up a new horizon of opportunities,” he added. Chairman of Myanmar Tourism Marketing, May Myat Mon Win, said: “Myanmar is considered the last frontier in the South East Asia. Full of mysteries to be discovered. Myanmar can offer many things, everything to everyone.”
YIA received 6.035 million passengers in 2018. In the first four months of 2019, it handled 2.32 million passengers, a 4.2% increase compared to 2.22 million in the same period last year. Assistant Vice President of Trade Sales at IndiGo, said: “In the last two years, we have been expanding in international markets while continuously enhancing service and operational efficiency. This roadshow has expanded our network and will help us in our expansion plans.”