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TFP Bureau, Raipur, December 18, 2024: Chhattisgarh is set to achieve a new milestone in air connectivity with the launch of the Raipur-Ambikapur-Bilaspur airline on December 19, under the Regional Connectivity Scheme of the Central Government. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai will inaugurate the service during a ceremony at Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur, scheduled from 10:45 AM to 11:10 AM.
Operated by Fly Big Airlines, the 72-seater aircraft will provide affordable air travel, boosting trade, tourism, and regional development. Flights will operate three days a week—Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
The first flight will depart from Raipur at 9:00 AM, arriving at Maa Mahamaya Airport in Ambikapur at 10:15 AM. Surguja MP Chintamani Maharaj will be the first passenger, flying from Raipur to Ambikapur. Following his arrival, Maharaj will flag off the second leg of the journey to Bilaspur at 10:40 AM.
Flight Schedule Announced
Raipur to Ambikapur: Departs 9:00 AM, arrives 10:15 AM
Ambikapur to Bilaspur: Departs 10:40 AM, arrives 11:35 AM
Bilaspur to Ambikapur: Departs 12:00 PM, arrives 12:55 PM
Ambikapur to Raipur: Departs 1:20 PM, arrives 2:35 PM
Significance for Tribal Region Surguja
The launch of air services marks a historic moment for the tribal-dominated Surguja division, fulfilling a long-standing aspiration for air connectivity. Local residents believe the initiative will significantly benefit tourism, business, and accessibility to major cities like Raipur, Delhi, and Kolkata.
“The start of air travel will not only ease transportation but also open new opportunities for students, traders, and patients requiring advanced medical facilities,” said a local leader.
Historical Context and Development
The Darima airstrip, constructed in 1950, has undergone substantial upgrades over the years, with recent investments of ₹80 crores to transform it into Maa Mahamaya Airport. Located 13 km from Ambikapur, the airport spans 365 acres at an elevation of 1,924 feet above sea level.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had virtually inaugurated the airport on October 21, but flights could not begin earlier due to delays in receiving the International Air Transport Association (IATA) airport code. Following efforts by MP Chintamani Maharaj and Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu, the air service is now ready to take off.
Boost to Regional Connectivity
The Raipur-Ambikapur-Bilaspur service is expected to strengthen connectivity across Chhattisgarh and beyond. The initiative is seen as a step towards integrating remote regions into the broader economic and educational framework, enabling students, traders, and tourists to reach new destinations with ease.
Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai described the launch as a significant leap forward for the state’s infrastructure and growth, highlighting the government’s commitment to regional development through enhanced air services.
