Odisha's air connectivity expands with launch of new domestic routes

Editor Editor
Jan 3, 2025 - 18:36
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Odisha's air connectivity expands with launch of new domestic routes

Bhubaneswar, Jan 3: The Odisha Government has introduced new direct domestic flight services from Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar to Jaipur, Kochi, Lucknow, and Patna, as well as from Veer Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda to Hyderabad, Raipur, and Lucknow.

This enhancement in air connectivity is part of the New Destination Policy (NDP) 2024, initiated under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and spearheaded by Minister of Commerce & Transport, Steel & Mines, Bibhuti Bhushan Jena. The policy is designed to promote new air routes through Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and strategic incentives, thereby improving accessibility and strengthening the state's aviation infrastructure.

Air India Express and Star Air have collaborated with the State Government to operate these routes, providing greater convenience for passengers and enhancing Odisha’s connectivity with other parts of India.

Babu Singh, MLA of Ekamra Bhubaneswar, flagged off the inaugural flight, emphasizing the event's historical significance for the state's development. Under Chief Minister Majhi's transformative vision, these flights are more than just transport links; they serve as vital conduits for growth, fostering economic and cultural exchanges among professionals, families, students, and naval personnel. In a ceremonial gesture, Singh presented the first ticket to a passenger.

The inaugural flights from Bhubaneswar to Jaipur and Kochi took off today, with services to Lucknow starting tomorrow, and Patna flights set to begin on January 15, 2025. With these new additions, Air India Express now offers a total of 104 weekly flights from Bhubaneswar, connecting Odisha to key cities such as Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Patna, and Pune.

To celebrate this milestone, Air India Express also unveiled an aircraft adorned with a stunning Ikat livery, honoring Odisha’s rich textile heritage and showcasing it in the skies.