Bhubaneswar: The Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar today commenced its highly anticipated direct flight service to Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone in Odisha’s international connectivity efforts.
The inaugural flight, operated by IndiGo Airlines, was flagged off by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, ushering in a new era of enhanced global access for the state.
The non-stop flight will connect Bhubaneswar with Abu Dhabi three times a week, operating on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. This new route is poised to offer a strategic link to the bustling Gulf region, further solidifying Odisha’s position on the international aviation map.
The direct service is a crucial addition to Odisha’s growing international network, which already includes direct flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.
The demand for air connectivity to the Gulf region has been consistently high, particularly with a significant Odia workforce residing across the UAE, Qatar, and Oman. This new connection is expected to greatly benefit blue-collar workers, business travellers, and tourists alike, providing much-needed convenience and reducing travel time.
Beyond facilitating diaspora travel, the Bhubaneswar-Abu Dhabi route is anticipated to unlock broader opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism. Abu Dhabi, a global transit hub, offers seamless connections to Europe, the Americas, and Africa, which will now be more accessible from Odisha.
This enhanced connectivity is expected to boost the state’s economic prospects and promote Odisha as an attractive destination for global business and leisure.
The flagging-off ceremony, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, underscored the state government’s commitment to improving air infrastructure and expanding international reach. The initiative aligns with Odisha’s vision for a ‘Viksit Odisha’ (Developed Odisha), leveraging improved connectivity for holistic growth.
The introduction of the Abu Dhabi flight, following the success of previous international routes, reflects the robust growth in passenger traffic at BPIA. The airport has seen a considerable increase in footfall, and continuous upgrades are underway to accommodate the rising demand.
With this latest addition, BPIA continues its trajectory towards becoming a major aviation hub in Eastern India, connecting Odisha more closely with the global community.