Air connectivity from Bhubaneswar is steadily shrinking. Biju Patnaik International Airport, once linked by direct flights to more than 30 Indian cities, has seen its network reduced to just 19 destinations in the current summer schedule. Adding to the concern, the airport’s only international service has also been discontinued.
Since July 18, all international flight operations from Bhubaneswar have come to a complete halt. On July 17, 64 passengers flew from Bhubaneswar to Bangkok. The following day, 140 passengers arrived from Bangkok. That marked the end of the route for now. Airport Operations Deputy General Manager Umakant Patel said the service is expected to resume in October.
Experts underline that air links are not merely a means of passenger transport. They form a critical foundation for tourism, industry, and overall economic growth. A reduction in flights could hurt Odisha’s tourism and industrial sectors. When passenger numbers fall, airlines need sustained demand as well as government support to keep routes viable, they noted.
Travel agencies have also expressed worry. Many passengers travelling abroad from Bhubaneswar are now forced to book tickets via Kolkata. This adds both extra time and higher costs to their journeys.
Airport data shows clear growth in recent years before the current dip. In July 2022, the airport handled 2,187 aircraft movements and 2,45,232 passengers. By July 2023, those figures rose to 2,885 flights and 3,63,576 passengers. At present, roughly 90–100 flights operate daily, carrying about 12,000–15,000 passengers.
The drop in both domestic and international connectivity has raised questions about the long-term impact on Odisha’s growth story and the convenience of travellers who rely on Bhubaneswar as their primary gateway.
