Long-standing issue of inadequate air connectivity in Jabalpur and the urgent need for decisive steps to improve it, were discussed in a meeting held on Tuesday under the aegis of the Vayu Seva Sangharsh Samiti – Udaan Jabalpur.
The participating members shared their concerns and proposed several constructive suggestions to improve flight connectivity to and from the city.
Committee convener Himanshu Khare emphasized that Jabalpur, despite being a prominent city in central India, remains poorly connected to several major destinations across the country. He stated that the city has long awaited substantial improvements in air services, yet continues to be excluded from important national aviation routes. Khare further suggested that if the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is unable to bring about the necessary upgrades and expansions at the Jabalpur airport, the facility should be handed over to private operators. According to him, privatization would not only enhance infrastructure but also attract more private airlines, resulting in better services and an improved airport ranking. He confirmed that the committee would prepare a formal proposal and submit it to the appropriate government authorities soon.
Committee members also raised the issue of Jabalpur’s lack of connectivity with Eastern India. They pointed out the absence of direct flights to important cities such as Guwahati, Kolkata, Ranchi, and Patna, which limits mobility and economic prospects for the Mahakoshal and Vindhya regions. The members stressed the need for immediate introduction of direct flights to Kolkata and Bhubaneswar. They also called for the addition of extra flights to Delhi and Mumbai to meet growing passenger demand.
Further, the need for stronger air links with Western and Southern India was discussed. Members suggested that Nagpur, an international airport located relatively close to Jabalpur, could serve as a vital connecting point. They recommended the initiation of direct flights from Jabalpur to Ahmedabad, Goa, and Pune via Nagpur, which would not only facilitate better travel options but also increase the city’s relevance in broader aviation networks. Another proposal included the extension of the current Jabalpur-Hyderabad flight to Chennai to enhance connectivity with southern India.
In addition to these suggestions, the committee proposed the creation of a regional “Mini Air Circuit” to improve intra-state and regional connectivity. They recommended that cities within a 500-kilometer radius of Jabalpur—such as Prayagraj, Gwalior, Raipur, Indore, Bhopal, and Nagpur—be linked through extended or connecting flights. Members believe that this initiative would significantly boost Jabalpur’s accessibility and make it a pivotal hub for central Indian air travel.
The meeting concluded with a strong consensus that improved air connectivity is essential for Jabalpur’s economic growth, tourism potential, and regional integration. The committee resolved to take proactive steps in engaging with government and aviation authorities to ensure that these proposals are considered and implemented at the earliest.
