Odisha Unveils ₹4,182 Crore Aviation Scheme to Strengthen Connectivity and Drive Growth

Bhubaneswar: Taking a major leap towards transforming regional air connectivity and positioning itself as an aviation hub in Eastern India, the Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, on Thursday approved the Building & Management of Aviation Assets and Network (B-MAAN) scheme.

With a budgetary allocation of ₹4,182 crore for the period 2025–2030, the scheme will integrate all aspects of aviation development under one comprehensive framework. Guided by the inclusive vision “Aviation for All (Samastanka Pain Biman Seba),” B-MAAN aims to make air travel accessible, affordable, and sustainable while boosting employment and private investment.

Under the scheme, the State will focus on expanding infrastructure and modernisation of airports and heliports, including the development of new Greenfield and Brownfield airports in underserved regions. This will ensure wider regional access and improve operational efficiency across Odisha’s aviation network.

To strengthen air connectivity, the government will extend Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and other incentives to airlines under UDAN and similar initiatives, linking smaller towns with major cities. This step is expected to significantly enhance passenger mobility and regional economic activity.

A major highlight of B-MAAN is the establishment of a world-class Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) ecosystem at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) and other strategic locations. This will create a self-reliant aviation maintenance ecosystem, attract private sector participation, and reduce dependence on external facilities.

The scheme also focuses on emerging technologies and innovation, including the promotion of drones, seaplanes, e-VTOL aircraft, and aerospace manufacturing, enabling Odisha to keep pace with global advancements in aviation and green mobility.

Additionally, the State aims to strengthen its air cargo and logistics infrastructure to support agricultural exports, industrial logistics, and time-sensitive trade, integrating Odisha into national and global supply chains.

Emphasising human resource development, the scheme includes initiatives for aviation skill development, flight training, and specialised programmes for technicians, pilots (especially women), and ground-handling professionals in collaboration with industry partners.

To ensure effective execution, the Directorate of Aviation will be strengthened and restructured as a professional body responsible for planning, coordination, and implementation of aviation projects.

Officials said the B-MAAN scheme represents a transformative step in Odisha’s aviation journey, fostering connectivity, innovation, investment, and employment generation. It aligns closely with the State’s long-term vision of ‘Viksit Odisha 2036’, ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth in the aviation sector.