Bhubaneswar, July 22: Malkangiri Airport achieved a major milestone on Wednesday with the successful completion of its maiden passenger aircraft trial run, bringing the long-awaited dream of air connectivity for the remote district a step closer to reality. The successful test paves the way for the commencement of commercial flight operations within the next month under the Centre’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN.

The trial flight was conducted under the supervision of the Malkangiri district administration and the Directorate of Aviation, Government of Odisha. A Cessna Grand Caravan 208B EX aircraft operated by IndiaOne Air took off from Jeypore and landed safely at Malkangiri Airport at around 2.20 pm. On its arrival, the aircraft received a ceremonial water cannon salute from the airport’s fire services team, marking the historic occasion.

Officials said the successful technical evaluation confirmed the airport’s operational readiness for passenger services. Initially, non-scheduled commercial flights will be operated based on confirmed passenger bookings, with regular services expected to begin within a month.

District Collector Ashwini S. described the successful landing as a landmark achievement for Malkangiri, stating that the district administration has completed all necessary preparations to ensure the smooth launch of flight operations. He said the new air link would significantly improve connectivity to one of Odisha’s most remote districts while opening new avenues for tourism, trade, healthcare access and economic development.

Senior civil and police officials closely monitored the trial operations, including Superintendent of Police Binod Patil, Divisional Forest Officer Sai Kiran, Additional District Magistrates Bedabara Pradhan and Somnath Pradhan, and Sub-Collector Duryodhana Bhoi. Superintending Engineer (R&B) Rabindra Kumar Behera oversaw the technical preparedness of the runway and related infrastructure.

With the successful trial completed, Malkangiri is now poised to join Odisha’s growing network of regional airports, promising faster connectivity and enhanced development opportunities for the region.

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