Malkangiri: Southern Odisha’s aviation network received a major boost on Wednesday as Malkangiri Airport successfully completed its first passenger aircraft trial landing, marking a significant milestone towards the commencement of commercial flight operations. The successful trial is expected to pave the way for regular air services from the district within the next month.
The trial flight was conducted by IndiaOne Air using a Cessna Grand Caravan 208B EX aircraft, which departed from Jeypore Airport and landed safely at Malkangiri Airport at 2:20 pm. The aircraft was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute, symbolising the successful inauguration of flight operations at the airport.
Trial Conducted Under Official Supervision
The trial landing was carried out under the supervision of the Malkangiri district administration and the Directorate of Aviation, Odisha, to assess the airport’s operational readiness and safety standards.
The aircraft was flown by Captain Prem Kumar Garg, accompanied by co-pilot Satish S. K. A high-level technical safety team from Bhubaneswar also inspected the airport infrastructure during the exercise and expressed satisfaction with the preparedness of the facility for passenger operations.
Officials stated that the successful trial validated the airport’s runway, navigation systems and operational infrastructure required for the launch of commercial services.
Commercial Flights To Start Under UDAN Scheme
Following the successful trial, commercial flight operations are expected to begin within the coming month under the Central Government’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN).
Initially, flights will operate as non-scheduled services, with schedules based on confirmed passenger bookings. To streamline the process, the district administration will establish a dedicated booking coordination system.
A desk officer at the Malkangiri Collectorate will facilitate passenger bookings, while the Tourism Department will assist with passenger support, promotion and operational coordination.
The initiative aims to improve accessibility to the remote district while encouraging tourism, trade and investment.
Airport To Strengthen Regional Connectivity
Describing the successful trial as a landmark achievement, Malkangiri Collector Prathamesh Arvind Rajeshirke said the airport would significantly improve connectivity for the district and open new opportunities for economic development.
The airport currently features a 1,500-metre-long and 30-metre-wide runway, capable of handling small aircraft such as the Cessna Grand Caravan.
Runway Expansion Planned In Next Phase
The Odisha government has already planned the next phase of the airport’s development, which includes extending the runway from 1,500 metres to 3,000 metres.
The expansion will enable the airport to accommodate 19-seater aircraft and facilitate direct connectivity with major commercial centres across the country. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to improve passenger capacity, enhance regional air connectivity and support the district’s long-term economic growth.
The successful trial landing marks an important step in Odisha’s efforts to expand aviation infrastructure under the UDAN scheme. Once operational, Malkangiri Airport is expected to improve access to one of the state’s most remote districts, boost tourism, facilitate faster movement of people and goods, and strengthen connectivity between southern Odisha and major cities across India.
