The tribal-dominated district of Malkangiri in Odisha is most likely to be connected with direct flight services from Visakhapatnam International Airport soon, reports said. If everything goes well, the authorities are planning to start the flight services in 2025.
“Yes, we have received a flight proposal from operator IndiaOne. The service is scheduled to open in 2025 if everything is approved,” The Hindu quoted Visakhapatnam Airport Director S. Raja Reddy who confirmed the flight proposal.
As of now, pre-operational arrangements have been initiated to operate a nine-seater jet from IndiaOne as Malkangiri airport is not yet fully operational for commercial flights (non-scheduled flights). It is only operating flights such as for Ministers or in case of any emergency services, but not scheduled flights like those carrying regular passengers.
If everything falls into place, tourists and people from across Odisha can get a faster mode of transport from Visakhapatnam to Malkangiri. Currently, IndiaOne operates a nine-seater jet from Visakhapatnam and Jaipur (Odisha) which is enjoying a good occupancy.
The flight services to Malkangiri can be a great boost to Odisha and can also be used for logistical supplies of government authorities like police, medical and health in emergencies as Malkangiri is a Naxal affected area.
“Malkangiri airport which was formally opened in January 2024 is presently operating non-scheduled and emergency flights. We are taking up the infrastructure development of the airport and tenders have been floated. It is too early to estimate when the airport will be ready for scheduled flights. However, flight services between Visakhapatnam and Malkangiri are a welcome addition to the district,” Malkangiri Collector Ashish Iswar Patil told The Hindu.
Meanwhile, Malkangiri residents have demanded better and direct train services between the two cities, apart from flight services.
