Bhubaneswar, June 12: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi today inaugurated the direct flight service between Bhubaneswar and Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step forward in the state’s efforts to strengthen its international air connectivity.
With the launch of this new route, Bhubaneswar is now directly connected to four major international destinations: Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, and Abu Dhabi. This development is expected to not only enhance travel options for passengers but also boost trade, tourism, and economic ties between Odisha and the Middle East.
The decision to introduce the Bhubaneswar–Abu Dhabi flight comes following the overwhelming success of the Bhubaneswar–Dubai route, which was launched in May 2023. Since its inception, the Dubai flight has consistently operated at full capacity, demonstrating high demand for international connectivity from Odisha.
Supporting this growth, Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar recorded a 26.9% increase in passenger traffic in 2024. While the airport narrowly missed its target of five million annual passengers, officials remain optimistic about surpassing this milestone in 2025, thanks to both expanding domestic routes and the addition of new international services like Abu Dhabi.
The new direct flight is expected to further position Odisha as a key player in India’s aviation sector and serve the large Odia diaspora in the UAE, facilitating easier travel and stronger cultural and economic exchange.
