KORAPUT: The state government is progressing with plans to upgrade Jeypore Airport, which is anticipated to boost regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth in southern Odisha.
Jadumani Nayak, the sub-collector of Jeypore, announced that approximately 244 acres have been identified across three villages for acquisition to elevate the airport from Category 2B to 3C. A detailed land schedule has been submitted to the government for notification, and the acquisition process will commence upon approval.
Jeypore Airport, which commenced operations on October 31, 2022, under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, currently facilitates two nine-seater flights daily between Bhubaneswar and Jeypore, in addition to one flight between Jeypore and Visakhapatnam. After over three years of operation, significant expansion is on the horizon following the category upgrade approval.
This upgrade will enhance the airport’s capacity to accommodate 72-seater aircraft and allow for continuous operations without limitations on runway visual range. The expansion involves acquiring about 244 acres of land, which includes nearly 50 acres of government-owned land. A favorable feasibility report was submitted by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in August 2024, paving the way for the project. Furthermore, the existing 1,200-meter runway will be extended to 2,700 meters, accompanied by enhanced security measures to meet increased operational standards.
The regional transport officer, acting as the land requisition officer for the commerce and transport department, stated that expansion work will commence once the land is handed over.
Koraput collector Manoj Satyawan Mahajan emphasized that the airport upgrade will create a multiplier effect in the region, fostering economic activity, bolstering tourism, and improving overall connectivity.
