Jeypore The state government has launched the ‘Vi-Man’ (short for “Tilung Management of Aviation Assets and Network”) scheme. Jeypore Airport has been included under this initiative. Emphasis is being laid on upgrading and operating the airport, as well as improving connectivity with other airports in the state. The Chief Minister’s Office shared this information through social media platform X.
Efforts are being expedited to start 19-seater aircraft operations from here, following a green signal for the same.
According to a senior official, the government is not only planning to set up a greenfield airport in Paradip but also to upgrade and interlink Jaypur and Ganjam airports. That means flights will not just operate between Bhubaneswar and Jaypur-Visakhapatnam, but also connect other cities within the state.
As per the scheme, the Government Aviation Training Institute (GATI) at Birasal in Dhenkanal will train more pilots, including simulator-based training—where pilots will receive virtual flying experience via computer systems. A state-level high-level committee has been formed, and each airport will be assigned a Director, Terminal Manager, Safety and Security Manager. Experienced officers will regularly report on airport operations and development.
A decision has been taken to start 19-seater aircraft services from here. Preparations are underway to begin services by the end of March.
Airports at Rangailunda, Rairangpur (Mayurbhanj), Jamadarpalli (Sambalpur), and Tushuk (Balangir) have also been included under this scheme. The focus will be on holistic development of the airports. One of the key targets is enabling night landing at the Jeypore Airport. However, there could be delays in operations due to the absence of 19-seater aircraft in the service provider’s fleet. Hence, preparations are being sped up.
Runways near Souraguda and Bankabila have been extended up to 150 meters. Currently, 9-seater aircraft are operating, and a temporary fencing has been installed at the Bankabila end. With rising passenger numbers, there is a demand from all quarters for 19-seater aircraft services. Once these aircraft arrive, temporary clearances for the Bankabila end will be provided.
The airport now falls under 2C category. Out of the Rs74 crore provided by the government, ₹10–15 crore remains unspent. Work for attaining 3C category status is ongoing. After land acquisition at the Bankabila side, expansion work will begin. Once completed, the airport will be capable of handling 72-seater aircraft operations without any hindrance.
No responses yet