Representational image Photograph: (Canva)
Odisha is steadily expanding its aviation infrastructure, providing multiple air travel options through its operational airports and planning new facilities to boost connectivity and economic growth.
Currently, Odisha has six operational airports serving both intra-state and inter-state flights:
- Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), Bhubaneswar: Licensed for international, inter-state, and intra-state flights, this airport serves as the primary hub for the state.
- Veer Surendra Sai Airport (VSS), Jharsuguda: A domestic airport providing both intra-state and inter-state services.
- Rourkela Airport (RRK), Rourkela: Domestic airport with regular flight connections.
- Jeypore Airport (PYB), Koraput: Serves intra-state and inter-state flights.
- Utkela Airport (UKE), Kalahandi: Operational for intra-state and inter-state flights.
The state government has also announced plans to develop 14 additional airports and 15 heliports across Odisha under the B-MAAN (Building and Management of Aviation Assets and Network) initiative. These facilities aim to support passenger flights, pilot training, UAV operations, and aero sports.
Flight Schedules Connecting Odisha Airports to Bhubaneswar
1. Jeypore (PYB) – Bhubaneswar (BBI) | 1h 30m nonstop
Indiaone Air 209: 9:15 am – 10:45 am, Daily
Indiaone Air 203: 3:55 pm – 5:30 pm, Daily
2. Bhubaneswar (BBI) – Utkela (UKE) | 1h 10m nonstop
Indiaone Air 108: 8:05 am – 9:15 am, Sunday to Thursday
Indiaone Air 101: 11:00 am – 12:10 pm, Sunday to Thursday
3. Bhubaneswar (BBI) – Rourkela (RRK) | 45 minutes nonstop
Alliance Air 745: 1:35 pm – 2:20 pm, Sunday, Monday, Friday
Alliance Air 745: 2:50 pm – 3:45 pm, Tuesday, Thursday
Alliance Air 745: 4:35 pm – 5:30 pm, Saturday
4. Bhubaneswar (BBI) – Jharsuguda (JRG) | 45 minutes nonstop
Star Air 606: 12:30 pm – 1:15 pm, Wednesday
Alliance Air 747: 4:05 pm – 5:05 pm, Sunday, Monday, Friday
Alliance Air 747: 7:05 pm – 8:05 pm, Saturday
Star Air 606: 8:05 pm – 8:55 pm, Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Saturday
Star Air 606: 8:30 pm – 9:20 pm, Tuesday, Friday
Bhubaneswar acts as the central hub linking all major airports in the state, facilitating both business and tourism travel. Flights are scheduled to ensure connectivity across weekdays and weekends, with some rotations varying by day.
Aviation Infrastructure Expansion
In August 2025, the Odisha government unveiled plans to upgrade 14 existing airstrips into fully operational airports while establishing 15 heliports in districts without current air connectivity.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasised that these facilities will not only support passenger services but also serve as hubs for pilot training, UAV training, and aero sports.
Under this initiative, a cadet pilot program has been launched to train tribal girls as commercial pilots, aiming to enhance skill development and employment opportunities.
The state has also signed an agreement with Air Works, a leading Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) company, to establish a modern MRO facility at Biju Patnaik International Airport. This will provide aircraft maintenance services and additional training avenues for youth.