Madhya Pradesh's Datia Airport set to boost regional air connectivity

Madhya Pradesh's air travel landscape is poised for transformation as the state sets its sights on enhancing regional air connectivity through the development of Datia Airport. With an estimated cost of Rs 500 million, the airport is projected to be completed by February 2024. The region's aviation growth has been remarkable, with aircraft movements per week surging from 506 in 2014 to 554 in 2021 and a recent acceleration to 956. The strategic positioning of Datia Airport will facilitate flights connecting Khajuraho and Bhopal, contributing to the expansion of regional air travel networks.Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel Jyotiraditya M. Scindia laid the foundation stone for Datia Airport. The project includes refurbishing the existing 1810-meter runway, constructing a two-aircraft apron for nineteen-seater planes, and establishing a 750-square-meter terminal building along with an Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower. This development aligns with the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) UDAN, designed to enhance nationwide connectivity. As India's aviation sector anticipates significant growth, modernising infrastructure and bolstering professional training become crucial.The conversion of the Datia airstrip into a comprehensive airport meets a longstanding demand, according to Scindia. The completion of this project is expected to bring transformative change, bolster tourism, and support the dynamic growth trajectory of air travel in Madhya Pradesh. This surge in aircraft movements underscores the need for increased aviation facilities and infrastructure to accommodate the sector's expansion.