Bhubaneswar: Alliance Air has proposed new flight routes connecting Hyderabad and Bangalore to Rourkela via Raipur Airport, according to former MLA Dilip Ray.
The airline currently operates an ATR-32 aircraft on Rourkela-Bhubaneswar-Rourkela route under Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN) thrice a week.
Taking to X, Ray said this initiative will greatly enhance connectivity and bring new opportunities for economic growth to our region. “In addition, we are also in discussions with IndiGo to start flights from Rourkela to Bangalore and Hyderabad, further improving our connectivity,” he wrote.
He added that land acquisition and infrastructure upgrades are essential to further develop Rourkela Airport for larger aircraft operations. The airport of SAIL is licensed for ATR-42-type aircraft operations with 5 KM visibility requirements, he informed.
“We are working diligently to acquire the necessary land and address any challenges that may arise. Additionally, we are focused on resolving the visibility issues during winter to ensure smooth, safe and most importantly regular flight operations. I shall be actively following up with the state government and all relevant authorities to extend the necessary support and resources to overcome these challenges and ensure that my Rourkela gets the flight connectivity it deserves,” said the BJP leader, who recently lost the Assembly elections from Rourkela.
Sundargarh MP Jual Oram further asserted that he would ensure take over of the airport by Airports Authority of India after BJP forms a government at the Centre and in Odisha for its further expansion and upgradation to operate bigger aircraft and also installation of Instrument Landing System and night landing facility for all weather and night operation.
