Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik dedicated the iconic Dakota (DC-3) Aircraft (VT-AUI) to the People. This Aircraft belongs to erstwhile Kalinga Airlines was founded by Hon’ble (Late) Shri Biju Patnaik, Ex-Chief Minister of Odisha.
The said airlines operated nearly a dozen Dakotas and Late. Shri Patnaik was its Chief Pilot.
This Aircraft was used by him to rescue former Indonesian Vice- President Md. Hatta and former Prime Minister Sutan Sjahrir.
For his effort, Late Biju Patnaik was given an honorary citizenship of Indonesia and awarded the title of “BHUMI PUTRA” by the Indonesian Government, a recognition rarely granted to a foreigner.
Since, this aircraft is closely associated with Late. Shri Biju Patnaik, it will resemble Odisha’s rich aviation history which would be a befitting tribute to one of the most iconic personality of Odisha.
People will see this Dakota Aircraft as a memento of Late Biju Patnaik’s bravery and heroics. With the sincere efforts of Government of Odisha, the Dakota Aircraft was shifted from NSCBI Airport, Kolkata to Bhubaneswar on 18.01.2023 by road.
The display of this Aircraft will inspire the people of Odisha and propel them to Dream Big.