Bhubaneswar, Jul 20: Odisha’s aviation sector is witnessing another landmark development that promise to transform connectivity and tourism in the state. After Puri, Malkangiri’s long-cherished dream of air travel is edging closer to reality.

A high-level security team from Bhubaneswar visited the Malkangiri airport on Monday to conduct a detailed inspection of the runway, terminal facilities, fire safety arrangements, and emergency services.

The team meticulously reviewed every aspect to ensure readiness ahead of the trial run. Coordination meetings were held with district administration, police, fire services, health, and other departments to finalize strategies for smooth operations.

The trial run is scheduled for July 22. If successful, it will mark a milestone toward launching regular flight services from Malkangiri, fulfilling a decades-long aspiration of the district’s residents.

Also read: Puri International Airport Gets Stage-I Clearance

The development is expected to significantly improve connectivity for the remote region and open new avenues for economic growth.

Puri Airport Project Gains Momentum

The proposed Shree Jagannath International Airport in Puri has taken a significant step forward with Stage‑I forest clearance granted by the Centre. The clearance allows diversion of nearly 28 hectares of forest land, subject to strict environmental safeguards including compensatory afforestation and biodiversity protection.

Located near Girala village, the airport will cover 1,164 acres with a 3,800‑meter runway capable of handling wide‑body aircraft such as Boeing 777s.

With an estimated investment of ₹5,631 crore under a Public‑Private Partnership model, the project aims to handle 4.6 million passengers annually in its first phase.

Authorities believe the airport will be a game‑changer for Odisha’s economy, boosting hospitality, creating jobs, and strengthening the spiritual tourism circuit centred around the Jagannath Temple.

Economic and Tourism Impact 

Authorities believe the airport will be a game-changer for Odisha’s economy. Direct international flights into Puri as well as Malkangiri are expected to boost the hospitality industry, create jobs, and strengthen the spiritual tourism circuit.

Together, the Malkangiri trial run and the Puri international airport project highlight Odisha’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and positioning itself as a hub for tourism and economic growth.