Jeypore, Ap 24: The Odisha government has launched plans to expand Jeypore Airport, aiming to strengthen regional connectivity and accelerate economic growth in the southern part of the state.
According to Jeypore Sub-Collector Jadumani Nayak, approximately 244 acres of land across three villages have been identified for acquisition to facilitate the airport’s upgrade from Category 2B to 3C. The detailed land proposal has already been submitted to the government, and the acquisition process will begin once approvals are in place.
Operational since October 31, 2022, under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, Jeypore Airport currently handles limited traffic, including two daily flights to Bhubaneswar and one to Visakhapatnam. After more than three years of service, authorities are preparing for a significant scale-up.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) had submitted a favourable feasibility report in August 2024, clearing the way for the expansion. Officials from the commerce and transport department confirmed that groundwork will begin soon after the land is formally handed over.
Koraput Collector Manoj Satyawan Mahajan highlighted that the project is expected to generate a ripple effect across the region, boosting tourism, improving connectivity, and stimulating local economic activity.
The proposed upgrade will allow the airport to accommodate larger 72-seater aircraft and operate round-the-clock, in all weather conditions. Plans include extending the current 1,200-metre runway to 2,700 metres and upgrading security infrastructure to meet higher aviation standards. Of the total land required, around 50 acres are government-owned.
