Bhubaneswar-Jharsuguda UDAN flight from June 14

Odisha government today decided to start the first regional air connectivity operation between Jharsuguda and Bhubaneswar from June 14 under the Centre's UDAN scheme, official sources said.

The decision in this regard was taken at the State Level Monitoring Committee on RCS-UDAN held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary AP Padhi.

The Centre has launched the 'Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik' (UDAN) scheme which is aimed at boosting regional connectivity with low-cost flights.

Reviewing the preparedness for starting the UDAN operation, the chief secretary suggested the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to expand the facilities for training of security personnel.

Secretary of the General Administration, Public Grievances and Civil Aviation department, A K Meena said the operation certificate for Jharsuguda airport has also been sanctioned.

He said state Home department has deputed the security personnel for Jharsuguda.

Meanwhile, Rourkela air strip has also been made ready for the UDAN operation and an MoU has been signed between Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) and AAI regarding air strip management and operation, the sources said.

Today's meeting also decided that state government would also provide security and fire personnel for the Rourkela airstrip.

Application has already been submitted for civil aviation license for Rourkela, Meena said adding that flight operation would start after getting the license.

The average price of a ticket for these flights would be around Rs 2,500, sources said.