Air India Express Celebrates Nagaland’s Rich Tribal Heritage with Tsungkotepsu-Themed Livery on Boeing 737-8 to Mark the Grand Hornbill Festival

Published on November 19, 2025

Air India Express is celebrating Nagaland’s vibrant Hornbill Festival by unveiling a striking Tsungkotepsu-themed livery on one of its new Boeing 737-8 aircraft, honoring the rich tribal heritage of the region. This initiative not only showcases the traditional Ao Naga warrior shawl, Tsungkotepsu, but also underscores the airline’s commitment to promoting India’s cultural diversity. As the official travel partner for the festival, Air India Express is offering a 15% discount on flights to and from Nagaland from December 1 to 10, making it easier for travelers to experience one of India’s most iconic cultural celebrations while supporting the tourism growth of the region.

Air India Express is marking Nagaland’s famed Hornbill Festival with a special tribute, unveiling a Tsungkotepsu-themed livery on one of its newest Boeing 737-8 aircraft. The airline, known for its international value carrier services, is celebrating the festival by incorporating the design of the Tsungkotepsu, the traditional warrior shawl of the Ao Naga tribe. This design represents the deep-rooted tribal heritage of Nagaland, paying homage to the cultural significance of the festival.

As part of a new collaboration with the Nagaland Tourism Department, Air India Express is offering a 15% discount on flights to and from Nagaland during the Hornbill Festival, which runs from December 1 to 10, 2025. This discount is available on the airline’s newly introduced Boeing 737-8 aircraft, which form part of its expanding fleet. The gesture is a nod to the growing demand for travel to Nagaland, driven by the cultural draw of the festival.

Tsungkotepsu, a key symbol for the Ao Naga tribe, is more than just a traditional shawl; it is an emblem of courage, strength, and heritage. The presence of the Tsungkotepsu design on the aircraft livery adds a personal and meaningful touch to Air India Express’s efforts to celebrate the cultural diversity of India. By featuring such iconic motifs, the airline not only strengthens its connection with Indian traditions but also highlights its commitment to promoting lesser-known cultural gems within the country.

The Hornbill Festival itself is one of India’s largest and most iconic celebrations. Held annually in Nagaland, it brings together people from across the world to experience the state’s rich music, food, art, and cultural traditions. With performances, traditional dance, and vibrant displays of Nagaland’s tribal history, the festival draws both domestic and international visitors eager to learn more about the region’s unique cultural offerings.

For 2025, Air India Express has been appointed the official travel partner of the Hornbill Festival. This strategic partnership further underscores the airline’s commitment to showcasing the diverse and colorful cultural landscapes of India. Through this collaboration, the airline continues its “Tales of India” initiative, which aims to promote various Indian destinations and cultural stories, connecting travelers to the country’s vibrant traditions and people.

The airline’s ongoing efforts to bring India’s cultural heritage to the global stage through travel initiatives are a key part of its mission. The Hornbill Festival partnership is not just a promotional campaign; it’s a genuine effort to strengthen tourism in regions that are often underrepresented in the broader national tourism narrative. Air India Express’s sponsorship of the festival also includes flights specifically designed to enhance travel ease to Nagaland during this peak cultural period.

The unveiling of the Tsungkotepsu-themed livery at the airline’s headquarters in Gurugram was attended by a range of dignitaries, including Air India Express Managing Director Aloke Singh and key officials from the Nagaland government. Abu Metha, the Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, emphasized the importance of this partnership for showcasing Nagaland’s culture globally. The collaboration also involves various other government officials, such as Theja Meru, Chairman of the Task Force for Music and Arts, and Ababe Ezung, OSD of the Transport Department.

The 2025 Hornbill Festival promises to be a spectacular event, and Air India Express’s involvement is set to further elevate its global profile. With its promotional discount on flights, the airline is making it easier for visitors to attend this culturally significant event, which continues to grow in popularity each year.

As Air India Express continues to expand its fleet with new aircraft like the Boeing 737-8, the airline is not only enhancing its operational capacity but also deepening its commitment to celebrating India’s diverse traditions. By aligning itself with major cultural events like the Hornbill Festival, Air India Express is building on its reputation as a carrier that celebrates and supports the nation’s cultural richness.

Air India Express is celebrating Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival with a Tsungkotepsu-themed livery on its new Boeing 737-8 aircraft, highlighting the region’s tribal heritage. As the official travel partner, the airline is offering a 15% discount on flights to and from Nagaland during the festival, further promoting cultural tourism.

For travelers interested in attending the Hornbill Festival, Air India Express’s new flight options and discounts provide a seamless travel experience to one of India’s most iconic cultural gatherings. This partnership is more than just a commercial venture; it’s a celebration of India’s vibrant tribal heritage, with the Tsungkotepsu-themed aircraft serving as a symbol of that commitment.