Next month, IndiGo will become the first Indian airline to operate an international service from Bhubaneswar. The maiden international flight from Bhubaneswar to Dubai will take off from Biju Patnaik International Airport on May 15, 2023.
IndiGo is working in close collaboration with the Odisha government to commence international operations from Bhubaneswar, strengthening connectivity from the state.
Further international services
Once the Dubai service is in place, further international flight operations will also commence from Bhubaneswar to two more destinations – Singapore and Bangkok.
IndiGo is reportedly currently in the process of finalising slots and other operational requirements for the two proposed services.
Direct connectivity to aviation hubs like Dubai, Singapore and Bangkok will help channelize the huge potential for economic growth through enhanced accessibility.
IndiGo recently won the bid to operate direct flights to these three important gateways. As per the agreement, IndiGo will operate a direct flight from Biju Patnaik International Airport three times a week.
IndiGo statement
Mr. Vinay Malhotra, Head Global Sales, IndiGo said, “We are pleased to announce the launch of maiden international flights from Bhubaneswar, enhancing direct connectivity to key international destinations.”
“IndiGo has been at the forefront of enhancing international connectivity at affordable fares. The new direct flights between Bhubaneswar-Dubai will reduce the need for travellers to connect to international destinations through metro cities only.”
“This will not only enable faster connectivity, enhanced accessibility but also encourage trade and tourism in the state.”
The inauguration of new international services also represents local opportunities for economic growth and development in the Odisha region.
Shri Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister, Odisha said, “Connectivity is key to development, and it has been a focus area of our government. Direct connectivity with Dubai which is one of the biggest aviation hubs will open up a direct gateway to the world.”
“Not only it will provide seamless connectivity but also it will have huge multiplier effect on investment in Odisha in sectors like IT, manufacturing and tourism.”
Bhubaneswar tourism
Bhubaneswar, also known as “The Temple City of India“, draws pilgrims from all over the world. The city is a tourist hotspot and boasts of beautiful temple architecture.
There are numerous tourist attractions in the city, including the Lingaraj Temple, Iskcon Temple, Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajarani Temple, and Nandankanan Zoological Park.
Bhubaneswar is also a major industrial city in Orissa, with a number of iron and steel manufacturing plants.
Dubai travel opportunities
The new Dubai service commencing from mid-May also provides a significant travel opportunity to those in the region.
Dubai, also known as the “Venice of the Gulf,” is the main commercial centre of the United Arab Emirates.
The city is also known for its high-end shopping, cutting-edge architecture, and nightlife. Furthermore, Dubai is known for having the purest and most reliable source of gold.
It is well-known for many tourist attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al Arab, the Dubai Fountain, the Dubai Mall, and many more.
It is also well-known for its luxurious hotels, including Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah, and Rixos Premium Dubai JMR.
