Bhubaneswar: Odisha is witnessing a remarkable transformation in its civil aviation landscape, driven by the state government’s forward-looking New Destination Policy.
Anchored by the Commerce & Transport Department, this policy aims to expand regional and international air connectivity through structured incentives, route support, and facilitation for airlines.
In a strategic boost to aviation infrastructure, the Odisha government has completed all formalities for establishing the state’s first Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bhubaneswar, marking a major leap in creating aviation linked economic ecosystems, an official statement said on Monday.
Within a short span, the policy has significantly enhanced Odisha’s aviation footprint both globally and domestically.
Altogether 13 new international and domestic flight services have been operationalised under the New Destination Policy, opening new corridors for trade, tourism, and regional integration.
On the international front, direct flights from Bhubaneswar to Dubai and Abu Dhabi have positioned Odisha on the global aviation map, strengthening diaspora ties and unlocking global market access.
Domestically, routes such as Jharsuguda–Mumbai, Jharsuguda–Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar–Goa, Bhubaneswar–Dehradun, and Bhubaneswar–Port Blair, among others, have enhanced connectivity to tribal regions, industrial zones, and key tourist destinations. These services are further supported by the operationalisation of regional airstrips at Jeypore, Rourkela, Utkela, and Rangeilunda under the UDAN scheme, ensuring seamless last mile connectivity.
In a significant step forward, the proposed Puri Airport project has achieved a major milestone with the launch of the Interactive Colour Coded Zoning Map (CCZM) on NOCAS 2.0.
This transformative digital tool enables online height clearance processing, ensuring that aviation planning is integrated with safe urban development, regulated infrastructure growth, and environmental safeguards.
The incorporation of CCZM for Puri is a pioneering move, enhancing regulatory efficiency and setting the stage for a well planned and sustainable airport development in the spiritual capital of Odisha.
What makes Odisha’s aviation strategy distinct is its emphasis on sustainability and network viability.
The New Destination Policy provides comprehensive support to ensure the continuity of services on unserved and underserved routes.
By unlocking new opportunities for tourism, industry, medical access, and education, the policy is bridging regional gaps and integrating aspirational districts into the mainstream growth story.
Further strengthening its futuristic outlook, the state government is also in the process of formulating a dedicated Drone Policy and fast-tracking land allotment for airport infrastructure, reinforcing its mission to build a resilient and innovation driven aviation ecosystem.
