After a two-year wait, Malkangiri is finally set to soar. Direct flight services connecting Malkangiri to Bhubaneswar are scheduled to commence by the end of this month, marking a historic milestone for the district.
Following a comprehensive final inspection of the runway, CCTV systems, and security protocols, a high-level technical team from India One Air has given the green signal.
While the airport was technically inaugurated before the 2024 elections, administrative delays and permit issues kept the engines silent—until now.
The service will initially feature a 9-seater aircraft, extending the existing Bhubaneswar-Jeypore route to reach Malkangiri. A trial landing is expected within the coming days to ensure total operational readiness.
This connectivity is more than just a transport upgrade; it is a vital leap toward shedding the district's "remote" label and accelerating regional development. With the airspace officially open, residents can finally trade long road journeys for a swift flight to the state capital.