Koraput: In a major boost to air connectivity in southern Odisha, Malkangiri Airport on Wednesday completed its maiden passenger aircraft trial run, paving the way for the launch of commercial flight services within the next month.Under the supervision of the district administration and directorate of aviation, Odisha, a Cessna Grand Caravan 208B EX aircraft, operated by IndiaOne Air, took off from Jeypore and landed at Malkangiri Airport at 2.20 pm smoothly. The aircraft was accorded a traditional water cannon salute by the airport fire services on arrival, marking a significant milestone in the district’s long-awaited aviation project.Malkangiri collector Prathamesh Arvind Rajeshirke said today’s successful trial landing marks a monumental milestone in the district’s connectivity journey. “The district administration, in close coordination with all stakeholders, is fully prepared to commence regular flight services for the general public within a month. Improved air connectivity will not only ensure faster travel but also unlock immense opportunities for tourism, trade and overall economic development,” he said.The flight crew, led by chief pilot captain Prem Kumar Garg and co-pilot Satish S K, expressed satisfaction with the airport’s operational preparedness. “The runway, airside facilities and operational infrastructure meet the required standards. The airport is safe and fully ready for aircraft operations,” a crew member said after completing the evaluation.A high-level technical and safety team from Bhubaneswar, comprising assistant director (security) M K Das, assistant director (aero safety) Niraj Kumar Nayak and Malkangiri Airport accountable manager Ashok Kumar Raut, also carried out the final safety assessment.Officials said flight operations will initially begin under the Regional Connectivity Scheme Udan with non-scheduled commercial services, under which flights will operate based on confirmed passenger bookings. A dedicated desk officer will be stationed at the district collectorate to coordinate bookings, while tourism department will oversee passenger facilitation and promotional activities.The airport currently has a 1,500-metre-long and 30-metre-wide runway, suitable for small aircraft operations. The state govt plans to extend the runway to 3,000 metres in the next phase, enabling the operation of larger 19-seater aircraft and integrating Malkangiri with major economic and commercial centres across the country.
