Bhubaneswar: New direct domestic flight services were started from Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar to Jaipur, Kochi, Lucknow, and Patna, as well as from Veer Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda to Hyderabad, Raipur, and Lucknow.
Flagging off the inaugural flight at BPIA, Babu Singh, MLA, Ekamra Bhubaneswar, said it marks a historic significance for Odisha’s progress. The new air connectivity was achieved under the New Destination Policy (NDP) 2024, introduced by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and headed by Minister of Commerce & Transport, Steel and Mines Bibhuti Bhushan Jena.
The policy aims to boost emerging air routes through Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and strategic incentives to improve accessibility and enhance the state’s aviation infrastructure.
“These flights are not merely transportation links. They are lifelines of growth, bringing Odisha closer to the nation while empowering its people, culture, and economy. These flights will bring unprecedented convenience for professionals, families, students, and naval personnel, fostering economic and cultural exchanges,” Singh said.
In a symbolic gesture, the MLA handed over a ticket to the first passenger. The inaugural flights from Bhubaneswar to Jaipur and Kochi took off on the day. Flights to Lucknow will commence on Saturday, followed by services to Patna on January 15.
Air India Express and Star Air have partnered with the state government to operate these routes, offering passengers greater convenience and amplifying Odisha’s connectivity to the rest of India.
With these additions, Air India Express now operates 104 weekly flights from Bhubaneswar, connecting Odisha to major cities including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Patna, and Pune.
Adding a cultural dimension to the celebration, Air India Express unveiled an aircraft featuring a stunning Ikat livery, honoring Odisha’s rich textile heritage and showcasing it to the skies.
Among others, Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Commerce & Transport Department and representatives of Air India Express were present. “This strategic expansion, aligned with the vision of Viksit Odisha, is poised to drive growth in the tourism and aviation sectors while boosting economic development and creating stronger ties across the nation,” Padhee said.
