Chennai Airport News: Jharsuguda Airport Seeks Direct Flights to Chennai After Rs 2,100 Crore Approval
Chennai Airport News
The Centre has approved Rs 2,100 crore for the expansion and development of Veer Surendra Sai (VSS) Airport in Jharsuguda, Odisha. The plan includes extending the runway, building a new terminal and improving passenger facilities. The aim is to strengthen air connectivity in western Odisha.
The proposals were discussed at the airport advisory committee meeting held earlier this week. Bargarh MP and committee chairman Pradip Purohit said the Centre wants to develop VSS airport into an international airport. For this, Rs 2,100 crore has been approved. About 350 acres of land will be acquired for the expansion.
Official sources said the process of acquiring 168.88 acres for the runway expansion is already going on. The airport is also targeting a 41.2 per cent rise in passenger traffic. The planned upgrades are expected to help it handle more passengers and air traffic.
Purohit said the committee held talks with the authorities about the airport’s development proposals. These include direct flights to Mumbai and Chennai, and an additional morning flight to New Delhi. These proposals will be taken up with the Civil Aviation Ministry for consideration, so they are not final yet.
Official sources said flight connectivity remains a priority. In the first phase, the proposals include a second morning flight between Jharsuguda and New Delhi. They also include direct services to Chennai, Jaipur and Visakhapatnam.
Purohit also said the committee will ask the Culture department to make arrangements at the airport to showcase the rich art and cultural heritage of western Odisha. This would give visitors a taste of the region as soon as they arrive.
A longer runway, a new terminal and better amenities could make it easier for people in western Odisha to travel. More flights may also help business, tourism and industry in the area. The proposals for new flights still need approval from the Civil Aviation Ministry, so passengers will have to wait for further announcements.
Ajeet Yadav is an aviation enthusiast covering airline news, airports, aircraft, and industry developments through well-researched and reliable reporting.
