Dispur, Aug 26 (IANS): Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Thursday said economic activities in the northeast will get a boost with the frequent air connectivity between the region and other parts of the country.

His remarks came as Spice Jet is set to launch new daily flights connecting Silchar with Kolkata, Guwahati and Guwahati with Aizawl from October 4.

"The decision to enhance air connectivity between northeast and other parts of the country will serve as a fillip to the tourism potential of Assam and other northeastern States," said Sonowal while expressing gratitude to the airline.

Commenting on this development, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Jayant Sinha said: "Feeder routes (or a hub and spoke model) can connect the citizens of many smaller cities nationally and globally. A key pillar of the New Civil Aviation policy is the enhancement of regional connectivity."

With travelling from or to Barak Valley difficult, the increased frequency of air flights, will help people, especially students and patients, experience hassle-free movement in and around the region.

"Increasing air sorties in the region will also bolster economic development of the region," said Sonowal adding other airlines should increase the frequency of their air services in Assam and the northeast.