International flight operations from Bhubaneswar to directly connect Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok

Bhubaneswar: With a purpose to enhance international air connectivity, Odisha government has chalked out plans to introduce flight operations from Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), Bhubaneswar to directly connect the State with Dubai, Singapore and Bangkok soon, a BPIA official said today.

According to the source, it is necessary to make Odisha a leading State in the field of international flight operations. The connection to Dubai will open up the entire western side of the world and Singapore and Bangkok will open up the entire eastern side. This will make travel for people of Odisha friendlier and economical. It will also help Prabasi (Non-Resident) Odias to come to their State in a convenient and easier manner, a press release issued by the BPIA authorities in this regard mentioned.

In pursuance to the above, a request for proposal (RFP) was earlier floated for selection of a suitable airline operator. This will facilitate international air connectivity. M/s lndiGo has applied for its operation in these routes. As a result, 186 seater flights will be operated from BPI Airport, Bhubaneswar and the expenditures will be borne by the State government towards the proposed flight operations.

Notably, in lieu, the revenue generated through ticketing will be retained by State government.