Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s ambitious plan to transform its air travel ecosystem took a major step forward today during the fourth meeting of the High-Powered Committee on Aviation, held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Ahuja.
The committee, comprising key state officials including Development Commissioner, Smt. Anu Garg and Principal Secretary, Commerce and Transport Smt. Usha Padhee, focused on aligning aviation growth with the overarching vision of Developed Odisha 2036-47.
The meeting’s central tenet is the state’s long-term goal to establish 15 fully functional airports by 2047, a target set to significantly boost regional, domestic, and international air connectivity. This push for infrastructure expansion aims to position Odisha as a major aviation hub in Eastern India, opening new avenues for trade, tourism, and investment.
Key discussions revolved around accelerating infrastructure projects, enhancing air connectivity to areas like Rourkela and Jharsuguda, and creating a supportive policy framework. The progress of major projects, including the proposed greenfield international airport at Puri, was reviewed in detail, with the Chief Secretary stressing the need for prompt project execution and seamless inter-departmental coordination.
A major strategic focus of the committee was talent development and industrial growth. Officials emphasized the urgent need for a dedicated policy to encourage the establishment of Flight Training Organisations (FTOs) within the state. The functioning of the Aviation Centre at Dhenkanal was also reviewed with the goal of developing it into a primary hub for flight training and capacity building.
To attract private investment and facilitate equitable growth, the committee deliberated on formulating a comprehensive State Aviation Policy. Furthermore, to strengthen the state’s position in the aviation value chain, the proposal to recognise aircraft manufacturing and Maintenance and Repair (MRO) facilities as a key sector under the Industrial Policy Concept was considered.
The meeting concluded with a discussion on developing a new destination policy to promote general aviation connectivity and short-haul services, specifically to serve the state’s remote and underdeveloped areas, ensuring that the benefits of enhanced air travel reach all citizens.