Odisha Aims for 15 Operational Airports by 2047: Unlocking Tourism, Trade, and Investment
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In a bid to transform Odisha into a major aviation hub, the state government has set a bold target to establish at least 15 fully operational airports by 2047. This ambitious goal was discussed at the 4th Meeting of the High Power Committee on Aviation, chaired by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja. The meeting focused on advancing Odisha's aviation ecosystem in line with the state's Vision 2036-47. Currently, Odisha has 19 airports or airstrips, but only five are operational – Bhubaneswar, Jharsuguda, Jeypore, Utkela, and Rourkela. Bhubaneswar is the only international airport in the state, offering connections to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok. Plans are underway to build another international airport at Puri, with special zones for aviation and logistics. The government aims to generate ₹5,000 crore in annual revenue from aviation-related services by 2047. To achieve this, the state is working on various initiatives, including the establishment of Flight Training Organisations to develop a skilled talent pool for the aviation industry. The operationalisation of the aviation centre at Dhenkanal was also reviewed, with a focus on making it a key hub for flight training and capacity building. The state is planning to formulate a comprehensive aviation policy to streamline regulatory processes, attract private investments, and facilitate uniform growth across the sector. Additionally, the Committee considered recognizing aviation manufacturing and MRO facilities as a thrust sector under the Industrial Policy Resolution to strengthen Odisha's aviation value chain. Chief Secretary Ahuja emphasized the need for proper inter-departmental coordination, timely project execution, and proactive planning to position Odisha as a leading aviation hub in eastern India and unlock new opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment.
