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In a major step towards improving regional connectivity and boosting tourism in Madhya Pradesh, Datia and Satna airports are now ready for operation after receiving necessary clearances. The state aviation department has initiated efforts to seek a time slot from the Prime Minister’s Office to facilitate the formal inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
With these additions, the total number of operational airports in Madhya Pradesh will increase from six to eight. The existing operational airports include Bhopal, Indore, Rewa, Khajuraho, Jabalpur, and Gwalior.
Datia airport, which received its final clearance last month, has been developed to accommodate ATR-72 aircraft. Meanwhile, the Satna airport is equipped to handle smaller aircraft with a seating capacity of around 20 passengers. Both facilities are expected to significantly improve regional connectivity and support the state’s economic and tourism growth.
A senior official from the aviation department commented, “We want the operation of both Datia and Satna airports to start at the earliest.” The expansion aligns with the broader vision under the Centre’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, which aims to make air travel accessible in remote regions.
Earlier, there were expectations that the Prime Minister might virtually inaugurate the Satna airport during the Global Investors Summit held in Bhopal in February. However, the inauguration did not materialize at the time.
Looking ahead, seven more small airports are planned under the UDAN scheme in Shivpuri, Ujjain, Shahdol, Mandla, Chhindwara, Neemuch, and Khandwa. These will support 20-seater aircraft, with construction work in Shivpuri and Ujjain expected to commence shortly. Land acquisition for these projects is currently underway, and airstrips will be expanded as part of the development process.
The new infrastructure is poised to usher in a new era of connectivity, economic opportunity, and tourism potential for Madhya Pradesh.