Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has directed officials to develop the state as a national model in the aviation sector, emphasizing expansion of air connectivity, tourism, and infrastructure development.
During a review meeting in Bhopal, the Chief Minister stressed that aviation services are not only benefiting remote regions of Madhya Pradesh but also attracting passengers from neighbouring states.
Aviation Infrastructure to Support Tourism and Industry Growth
The Chief Minister highlighted that improved aviation connectivity plays a key role in boosting tourism and economic development across the state.
He instructed officials to prioritize:
- Construction of helipads in metropolitan and industrial areas
- Involvement of private sector in heliport development
- Expansion of helicopter-based tourism services under PM Shri Heli Tourism Service
The government aims to strengthen last-mile air connectivity through both fixed-wing and helicopter services.
Ujjain Airport Development to Be Completed on Priority
A major focus of the meeting was the development of Ujjain Airport, which is being expanded over 95 acres with a 2,700-meter runway and a total development length of 4,100 meters.
Key updates include:
- ₹590 crore approved for land acquisition compensation
- Airport development aligned with preparations for Simhastha 2028
- Focus on improving passenger movement and regional connectivity
Officials were directed to ensure timely completion of all works.
Aviation Policy Driving Strong Passenger Growth
The state’s aviation expansion is supported by the Madhya Pradesh Civil Aviation Policy 2025, which offers incentives to boost air connectivity and airline operations.
The policy has already shown strong results, particularly in regional airports.
Rewa Airport Sees Strong Passenger Traffic Growth
A major success story highlighted in the meeting was the performance of Rewa Airport.
Key data shared:
- 24,000 passengers travelled via Rewa in the last six months
- Flights operational to Delhi, Raipur, and Indore
- 85% occupancy on Rewa–Indore route
- Over 80% occupancy on Rewa–Raipur route
- More than 70% occupancy on Rewa–Delhi route
The Chief Minister praised the aviation department for the strong performance of regional air services.
Expansion of Air Connectivity to Key Cities
The government is also working to connect Madhya Pradesh with major religious and economic hubs.
Proposed connectivity plans include flights to:
- Varanasi
- Patna
The aim is to further promote religious tourism and improve interstate connectivity.
Aviation Education to Build Skilled Workforce
The Chief Minister also emphasized the need for skilled manpower in the aviation sector.
He directed higher education institutions to promote:
- Aviation and pilot training courses
- Employment-oriented skill development programs under the New Education Policy
This initiative aims to create job opportunities for youth in the fast-growing aviation industry.
Madhya Pradesh is steadily strengthening its aviation ecosystem through infrastructure expansion, regional airport growth, and policy support. With rising passenger traffic and new airport projects like Ujjain and Rewa showing strong performance, the state is positioning itself as an emerging aviation hub in India.
