International Flights to Launch Soon from Raipur Airport.

Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, gave the green light on Wednesday for the commencement of international air services from Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur. Additionally, plans will be initiated to develop a cargo hub at the airport, marking a significant step in enhancing the state’s aviation infrastructure.

The announcement followed a meeting between Naidu and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan in New Delhi. The discussions focused on improving air connectivity in the state and advancing the development of regional airports. Naidu confirmed that international flights would soon operate from Raipur's airport, aligning with the growing demand for global connectivity in the region.

Chief Minister Sai also requested that Swami Vivekananda Airport be granted international airport status, emphasizing the state's potential for expanded air services. He noted the high passenger demand for direct flights to destinations such as Singapore and Dubai, suggesting that these routes would be commercially viable and boost economic growth in Chhattisgarh.

In addition to passenger services, Sai proposed the establishment of a cargo hub at Raipur Airport to facilitate the transport of agricultural and horticultural goods. Naidu assured that the proposal would be promptly acted upon to enhance the region's logistics capacity.

During the meeting, Sai also requested an upgrade of Bilaspur Airport to the 3C IFR category to accommodate night landings. Naidu instructed officials to expedite the installation of the Radio Navigation System (DVOR) to support this upgrade.

The Chief Minister further called for new flight services linking Ambikapur Airport with cities like Raipur, Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya, highlighting the region’s cultural and economic significance. He also requested the restoration of financial assistance for RCS flights at Jagdalpur and Bilaspur airports to improve regional connectivity.

ET