Rourkela Airport Set for Major Upgrade: What This Means for Western Odisha

The Steel Authority of India Ltd. has approved the transfer of Rourkela Airport to the Airports Authority of India, paving the way for significant upgrades. This move is expected to enhance air connectivity in western Odisha, attract investments, and boost local industries and tourism. Union Minister Jual Oram hailed the decision as historic, emphasizing its potential to accelerate economic growth and improve healthcare access in the region. With this development, Rourkela is poised to become a key aviation hub in eastern India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 12, 2026, 09:11 IST

Significant Development for Rourkela Airport

Rourkela: The Steel Authority of India Ltd. (SAIL) board has given the green light for the transfer of Rourkela Airport to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). This decision also includes the handover of additional land necessary for upgrading the airport to a 4C-category facility, a significant advancement for enhancing air travel in western Odisha.

Union Tribal Affairs Minister and Sundargarh MP Jual Oram shared this news on X, highlighting that the SAIL chairman and board have approved the airport's transfer to AAI, along with the required land for its expansion. Oram expressed gratitude to SAIL's leadership for what he termed a landmark decision.

The minister emphasized that the airport's expansion would greatly enhance connectivity, attract investments, stimulate industry and tourism, improve healthcare access, and create job opportunities.

He further noted that this initiative would accelerate the social and economic growth of Rourkela and its neighboring regions. With the SAIL board's endorsement, there is a growing optimism that this project will advance, potentially establishing Rourkela as a pivotal regional aviation center in eastern India.