Odisha Government Explores New Air Routes to Enhance Regional Connectivity
The Odisha government is actively planning to introduce new air services from Bhubaneswar's Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) to four key destinations: Tirupati, Surat, Bhopal, and Shirdi. This strategic initiative comes at a time when air connectivity to 11 destinations, including two international routes, has been suspended, highlighting a need to revitalize regional aviation links.
Focus on Smaller Aircraft for Efficient Operations
Government sources have revealed that a 70-seater aircraft is being considered as a viable option for operating flights to these new destinations. A senior official from the civil aviation department stated, "The four destinations are under consideration for connection, and discussions are ongoing with a regional airline. An agreement may be finalized soon, subject to certain conditions. It has not yet been decided whether these services will be daily." Speculation suggests that Star Air could be the airline roped in for this operation.
Strategic and Religious Significance of New Routes
The proposed Bhopal link is expected to serve as a gateway to central India, complementing the existing direct daily flight to Raipur. Additionally, the inclusion of Shirdi and Tirupati, both prominent religious sites, aims to facilitate easier pilgrimage travel via small aircraft. Currently, many travelers access Tirupati through Hyderabad, which is connected by a direct flight from Bhubaneswar, but the new route could offer a more direct alternative.
Impact of Suspended Services on Passenger Traffic
With the suspension of flights to 11 destinations—including international routes to Dubai and Singapore, and domestic ones like Indore, Dehradun, Jaipur, Lucknow, Goa, MOPA, Port Blair, Cochin, and Hindon—daily passenger numbers at BPIA have seen a significant decline. An airport officer noted, "The suspension could result in a daily drop of 1,200 to 1,500 passengers. While the introduction of four new destinations may boost footfall, overall, there might still be a shortfall of 700 to 800 passengers daily."
Historical Context and Future Prospects
Previously, Bhubaneswar was connected to 30 destinations, but recent suspensions have reduced this number. Despite these challenges, BPIA achieved a milestone in November with annual passenger footfall crossing the 50 lakh mark, averaging over 4 lakh passengers monthly. The new routes are part of efforts to sustain and grow this momentum, focusing on enhancing regional connectivity and supporting tourism and business travel in Odisha.
