- Chief Minister virtually inaugurated Ambikapur – Delhi – Kolkata air travel
- Direct connectivity of the region with the capital Delhi will boost trade, tourism and economic activities.
- Cabinet Minister Shri Rajesh Agarwal and Surguja MP expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister for the air service.
Taking a significant step towards strengthening air connectivity in the state, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai today virtually inaugurated the Ambikapur-Delhi-Kolkata air service from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose State Police Academy, Chandkhuri. On this occasion, he stated that the state government is continuously striving to connect major cities of the state with air services, so that the common people can also avail the benefits of affordable air travel.
The Chief Minister stated that the Prime Minister’s vision was that “even a person wearing slippers should be able to travel by air,” and this dream is now being realized in Chhattisgarh. Congratulating the citizens of the Surguja region, he said that this important facility has been made possible due to the efforts of public representatives and the regional MP. Direct connectivity with the capital Delhi and Kolkata will boost trade, tourism, and economic activities in the region. He further stated that air services are being continuously expanded in the state, and night landing facility has recently been introduced at Bilaspur Airport. Additionally, the budget also includes provisions for smooth operation of domestic air services through the “CG Vayu” scheme. The commencement of cargo service at Raipur Airport will help in taking the local products of the state to the national and international markets.
On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma said that the operation of 72-seater aircraft at Ambikapur (Drima) will further strengthen the connectivity between Delhi-Ambikapur-Kolkata. Lauding the efforts of the Chief Minister, he said that this has provided great convenience to the state. He also informed that along with the start of night landing facility in Bilaspur, air connectivity is also being expanded in Jagdalpur in South Chhattisgarh.
In the program, through virtual medium, Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal and Sarguja MP Shri Chintamani Maharaj also congratulated the Chief Minister for this initiative.
It is noteworthy that, under the scheduled schedule, passengers will be provided with both commuting and travel options, and connectivity to the Bilaspur region will also be strengthened. Ambikapur, the headquarters of the Surguja division, is a major administrative, educational, and commercial center in northern Chhattisgarh. This region is rich in natural resources, forest wealth, and mineral deposits. Furthermore, tourist destinations like Mainpat, Tatapani, and various waterfalls offer immense tourism potential.
With the launch of air service, the Surguja division will be directly connected to the national capital, Delhi. This will accelerate business activities, increase investment opportunities, and provide a national market for local products.
- Alliance Air flight schedule (4 days a week)
These flights will be operated by the airline Alliance Air. For passenger convenience, ticket booking has already begun on the official website.
It is noteworthy that Maa Mahamaya Airport, Darima, was developed under the Central Government’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN). Built in 1950, the runway was expanded from 1500 meters to 1800 meters, allowing larger aircraft like ATRs to operate. Maa Mahamaya Airport, Darima, Ambikapur, spans approximately 365 acres. Approval for civil and electrification work at the airport totaled ₹48.25 crore, ensuring all work has been completed in accordance with DGCA standards. The Maa Mahamaya Airport terminal building has been upgraded to accommodate 72 passengers. A four-lane road leading to the terminal building has been constructed, along with parking for approximately 100 vehicles.
- Delhi Route (Monday and Wednesday)
Monday (Flight No. 91613): Departs Delhi at 11:35 a.m. and arrives in Ambikapur via Bilaspur. Returns from Ambikapur at 12:00 p.m. and departs Delhi at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday (Flight No. 91614): Departs Delhi at 10:25 a.m. and arrives in Ambikapur via Bilaspur.
- Kolkata Route (Thursday and Saturday)
Saturday (Flight No. 91763): Departs Kolkata via Bilaspur, arriving in Ambikapur at 10:00 AM and departing directly to Kolkata at 10:25 AM. Thursday (Flight No. 91765): Departs Kolkata via Bilaspur, arriving in Ambikapur at 08:50 AM and departing Kolkata via Bilaspur at 09:15 AM.