Bhubaneswar: Odisha is undergoing a remarkable transformation in its civil aviation landscape, propelled by the Government’s visionary New Destination Policy. This policy, championed by the Commerce & Transport Department, is strategically designed to broaden regional and international air connectivity. It achieves this through a robust framework of incentives, dedicated route support, and streamlined facilitation for airlines. A significant milestone in bolstering aviation infrastructure is the establishment of the state’s first Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bhubaneswar. This crucial development marks a pivotal step in fostering aviation-linked economic ecosystems within Odisha.
In a short span, the New Destination Policy has substantially expanded Odisha’s aviation footprint, both globally and domestically. A total of 13 new international and domestic flight services have been operationalized, forging new pathways for trade, tourism, and regional integration. Internationally, direct flights from Bhubaneswar to global hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have firmly placed Odisha on the global aviation map, strengthening diaspora ties and unlocking access to international markets. Domestically, routes such as Jharsuguda–Mumbai, Jharsuguda–Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar–Goa, Bhubaneswar–Dehradun, and Bhubaneswar–Port Blair, among others, have significantly enhanced connectivity to Odisha’s tribal regions, industrial zones, and key tourist destinations. These services are further complemented by the operationalization of regional airstrips at Jeypore, Rourkela, Utkela, and Rangeilunda under the UDAN scheme, ensuring seamless last-mile connectivity across the state.
A major stride forward for Odisha’s aviation future is the proposed Puri Airport project, which has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of the Interactive Colour Coded Zoning Map (CCZM) on NOCAS 2.0. This innovative digital tool enables efficient online height clearance processing, ensuring that aviation planning is seamlessly integrated with safe urban development, regulated infrastructure growth, and crucial environmental safeguards. The pioneering incorporation of CCZM for Puri not only enhances regulatory efficiency but also lays the groundwork for well-planned and sustainable airport development in Odisha’s spiritual capital.
What truly distinguishes Odisha’s aviation strategy is its unwavering emphasis on sustainability and network viability. The New Destination Policy provides comprehensive support to ensure the continuity of services on unserved and underserved routes across the state. By unlocking new opportunities for tourism, industry, medical access, and education, the policy is effectively bridging regional gaps and integrating Odisha’s aspirational districts into the state’s mainstream growth narrative. Odisha is steadily emerging as a rising aviation hub, powered by a clear vision, strong policy direction, and a steadfast commitment to inclusive, future-ready infrastructure, all aligned with the state’s overarching goal of achieving a Viksit Odisha by 2036.
Further reinforcing its futuristic outlook, the Odisha Government, as per the Commerce & Transport Department, is actively formulating a dedicated Drone Policy and is expediting land allotment for airport infrastructure. These initiatives underscore the state’s mission to build a resilient and innovation-driven aviation ecosystem, solidifying Odisha’s position as a prominent player in India’s aviation landscape.