Team News Riveting
Raipur, March 30
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today launched the Ambikapur–Delhi–Kolkata air service through a virtual event held at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose State Police Academy, Chandkhuri.
The move marks a step towards strengthening air connectivity across the state and improving access for the general public.
Chief Minister said the state government is working steadily to connect major cities with air services so that air travel becomes accessible to all. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has envisioned a future where even a person wearing simple ‘Hawai Chappal’ can afford air travel, adding that this vision is now becoming a reality in Chhattisgarh.
He congratulated the people of the Surguja region stating that the service became possible due to the efforts of public representatives and the local Member of Parliament. Direct connectivity with Delhi and Kolkata will boost trade, tourism, and economic activity in the region.
Chief Minister said air services in the state are being expanded on a continuous basis. Night landing has recently started at Bilaspur Airport. Provision has also been made in the budget under the ‘CG Vayu’ scheme to support domestic air operations. Cargo services at Raipur Airport will help local products reach national and international markets.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma said that the introduction of a 72-seater aircraft at Ambikapur (Darima) will strengthen connectivity between Delhi, Ambikapur, and Kolkata. He said this initiative will benefit the state significantly. He added that along with Bilaspur, air connectivity is also being expanded in Jagdalpur in south Chhattisgarh.
Minister Rajesh Agrawal and Surguja MP Chintamani Maharaj joined the programme virtually and extended their greetings to the Chief Minister for the initiative.
Under the approved schedule, passengers will have travel options in both directions. Connectivity in the Bilaspur region will also improve. Ambikapur, the headquarters of Surguja division, is an important administrative, educational, and commercial centre of north Chhattisgarh. The region is rich in natural resources, forests, and minerals, and holds strong tourism potential with destinations such as Mainpat, Tatapani, and several waterfalls. With the launch of this service, Surguja division will now be directly linked to the national capital. This is expected to increase business activity, open new investment avenues, and provide wider market access for local products.
Alliance Air flight schedule (four days a week)
The flights will be operated by Alliance Air. Ticket booking has started on the official website.
Delhi route (Monday and Wednesday)
Monday (Flight No. 91613): Departs Delhi, reaches Ambikapur via Bilaspur at 11:35 am. Return flight departs Ambikapur at 12:00 noon for Delhi.
Wednesday (Flight No. 91614): Departs Delhi, arrives Ambikapur at 10:25 am. Return flight departs at 12:00 noon via Bilaspur to Delhi.
Kolkata route (Thursday and Saturday)
Saturday (Flight No. 91763): Departs Kolkata, arrives Ambikapur via Bilaspur at 10:00 am. Returns to Kolkata at 10:25 am.
Thursday (Flight No. 91765): Departs Kolkata, arrives Ambikapur at 08:50 am. Returns at 09:15 am via Bilaspur to Kolkata.
Meanwhile, Maa Mahamaya Airport at Darima has been developed under the Government of India’s regional connectivity scheme UDAN. Built in 1950, the airstrip has been upgraded with the runway extended from 1500 metres to 1800 metres, allowing operations of larger aircraft such as ATR. The airport spans around 365 acres. An amount of ₹48.25 crore was approved for civil and electrical works, completed in line with DGCA standards. The terminal building has been upgraded to handle 72 passengers. Facilities include parking for around 100 vehicles and a four-lane road connecting the terminal.
