The Central government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding civil aviation in India’s eastern states, with a focus on Odisha as a key hub for maintenance, repair, training, and skill development. Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu, addressing the Eastern Region Ministers’ Conference on Civil Aviation 2025 in Bhubaneswar this week, said aviation is no longer a luxury but a necessity for India’s development goals under Viksit Bharat @2047.
The minister highlighted that the eastern region, with its industrial base, growing tourism, coastal access, and emerging Tier-II cities, holds significant untapped potential. He stressed the importance of closer collaboration between the Centre, state governments, and industry players to address connectivity needs and position the region as a driver of India’s aviation ambitions.
At the conference, organised by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in collaboration with the Odisha government, multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Letters of Intent were signed to strengthen infrastructure, skill development, and employment opportunities in the region.
One of the key announcements was the setting up of an Anchor Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Bhubaneswar Airport. The facility, to be established by M/s Air Works India (Engineering) Pvt. Ltd. in collaboration with Odisha’s Commerce and Transport Department, will cater to both domestic and international aircraft. The project is expected to generate substantial skilled employment, positioning Odisha as a new aviation services hub in eastern India.
In a parallel move to boost human resource development, Air India signed a Letter of Intent with the Odisha government to launch a Cadet Pilot Programme (CPP). The programme will specifically encourage tribal girls from Odisha to pursue aviation careers, marking a significant step toward inclusivity in the sector.
To support the expansion of the aviation workforce, an MoU for skill development training of Odia youth was also signed. Under the Nua Odisha scheme, Air Works will conduct a six-month specialised programme covering aircraft surface preparation, masking, sanding, and painting. Up to 20 local candidates will be trained in the initial phase, with the potential for scaling up in the future.
Highlighting the sector’s progress, Naidu credited the UDAN scheme, which has improved regional air connectivity across India, making air travel more accessible and affordable. He noted that India has already emerged as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally and is continuing to invest in airport expansion, regional airlines, and skilling programmes.
He also emphasised the importance of developing Flight Training Organisations (FTOs) to build a steady pipeline of pilots and other aviation professionals, which will be critical as demand in the industry grows. The minister also pointed to opportunities in the seaplane sector, which could transform regional connectivity and unlock new avenues for tourism, cargo movement, and commerce.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who also addressed the event, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to advancing the aviation sector in collaboration with the Central government. He said improved air connectivity is vital not just for passenger travel but also for cargo logistics, industrial development, and balanced regional growth.
With the Centre’s backing and Odisha taking the lead through concrete initiatives, the eastern region is poised to become a significant aviation growth corridor. The establishment of the MRO facility, cadet pilot training, and skilling schemes are expected to generate employment, enhance connectivity, and position eastern states as critical contributors to India’s aviation future.
