Cuttack receives fresh push for an airport; know its current status, location, and proposed plans

Cuttack’s decades-old demand for a civilian airport at Charbatia in Choudwar gained renewed momentum on Tuesday as local BJP MP Bhartruhari Mahatab stated that he had urged the Union Civil Aviation Ministry to convert the WWII-era airstrip into a civilian airport.

Location & Historical Significance

Charbatia Airport, located 12 km north of Cuttack near Choudwar, was built by American forces during World War II. Later used by the Indian Air Force, it is now managed by the Aviation Research Centre (ARC) for defense reconnaissance.

Its strategic position near Paradip Port, Kalinganagar’s steel plants, and Nalco Township makes it a potential economic catalyst.

Current Status

The ARC-controlled facility features a 4.9 km runway, double the length of Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), making it perfectly capable of handling large aircraft. 

However, its defense role and proximity to BPIA (33 km away) have stalled civilian use.

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Proposed Plans

Mahatab’s February 2025 proposal highlights Charbatia’s cargo potential, citing nearby industrial growth and the upcoming New Capital Ring Road.

Earlier, Barabati-Cuttack MLA Sofia Firdous had pushed for an international aviation hub on the site’s 260-acre government land, arguing it could boost regional connectivity, tourism, and trade, along with infrastructure upgrades like a new Cuttack-Choudwar bridge.

Why the Push Now?

MP Mahatab stated that he, in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighted the airport's potential, noting its proximity to growing industrial zones. He argued that Bhubaneswar Airport is nearing saturation, and Charbatia could serve as a vital alternative.

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Challenges Ahead

Key hurdles include securing ARC’s consent, funding for modernization, and justifying a third airport alongside BPIA and Puri’s proposed greenfield project. As of now, the matter is up for the state and central governments to assess viability and come forward with plans.