Odisha has set a goal to make at least 15 airports fully operational by 2047, aligning with the state’s long-term Vision of Vikshit Odisha 2036-47. 

At present, the state has 19 airports or airstrips, including 12 that are state-owned, but only five civilian airports—Bhubaneswar, Jharsuguda, Jeypore, Utkela and Rourkela—are functional. Bhubaneswar remains the only international airport, connecting to Dubai, Singapore and Bangkok, while plans for a greenfield international airport at Puri are progressing. At a High Power Committee meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, officials reviewed ongoing projects and explored ways to boost connectivity, aviation infrastructure and policy reforms. The state expects aviation-related services to generate Rs 5,000 crore annually by 2047.

Discussions also focused on strengthening the aviation ecosystem through a dedicated policy for Flight Training Organisations and operationalising the Dhenkanal aviation centre. Recognising MRO and aviation manufacturing as a thrust sector was also considered, as officials noted the need for “an enabling policy environment” to drive growth.