Accessing the British Indian Ocean Territory, specifically Diego Garcia, requires air travel due to its remote location in the central Indian Ocean. Commercial airlines do not service the atoll; therefore, access is typically limited to authorized personnel via military or chartered aircraft. These often originate from military bases or select hubs with connections to the Indian Ocean region.
The ability to reach this strategically important location is crucial for maintaining operations related to defense and communications. Diego Garcia’s role as a military base contributes significantly to regional security and global power projection capabilities. Historically, the island’s strategic value has been recognized by various powers, leading to its current status and the resulting controlled access.