Cabinet approves ‘Odisha Civil Aviation Policy 2022’ to facilitate improved infra

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Cabinet has approved the new ‘Odisha Civil Aviation Policy 2022’ in its meeting held in Bhubaneswar on November 29, 2022, an official source said today.

The State has made diverse contributions in the Aviation sector and is now keen to articulate a sectoral policy namely ‘Odisha Civil Aviation Policy 2022’ within the purview of the Union Civil Aviation Act, Rules and Policies aligned as per National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP), 2016 and Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR) of the State, a press release issued in this regard mentioned.

With the introduction of this policy in the State, Govt. of Odisha aims at improving the Regional, Domestic and International air connectivity in the State, creating a business environment that attracts Airline Operators to invest and monetise the untapped potential in the aviation sector and increase employment opportunities.

The new policy shall facilitate improved Aviation infrastructure with an investor-friendly ecosystem for enhanced air connectivity in the State, establishing cargo hubs and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities and creation of sectoral skilled resources through Flying Training Organizations (FTO).

The State has three commercial Airports at Bhubaneswar, Jharsuguda and Jeypore. Presently, two Airports at Rourkela and Utkela have been developed, which are scheduled to be operated shortly. Apart from this, the State has 10 serviceable Airstrips and 13 heliports located in different corners of the State. In addition, there are six more Airstrips available in the State, owned by other agencies. This policy seeks to aid and promote the maximum utility of the Airport’s infrastructure and its sectoral development. The Directorate of Aviation, Odisha will act as the Nodal Agency.

In order to enhance aircraft movements, State Government has completely waived the VAT on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) for international flights and reduced it to 1 percent for flights under RCS-UDAN.

Initially, this policy will be applicable for five years which may be revised as per the amendments or introduction of Acts, Rules, Regulations and Guidelines published by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), Government of India and Government of Odisha.