New Delhi [India], May 31 (ANI): In a major step forward for regional connectivity and infrastructure development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday virtually inaugurated the newly developed Satna Airport and the upgraded Datia Airport in Madhya Pradesh. This milestone event marks a transformative advancement for the Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand regions and underscores the Government of India’s commitment to expanding access to air travel across the nation under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, according to the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
The ceremony at Datia Airport was attended by Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu, while Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol was present at the Satna Airport event. Both leaders emphasized the Civil Aviation Ministry’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regional connectivity, improve accessibility, and stimulate local economies.
Developed by the Airports Authority of India at a cost of Rs 36.96 crore, the Satna Airport is set to serve as a key regional hub in northeastern Madhya Pradesh. Known for its cultural and industrial prominence, Satna will now benefit from seamless air connectivity to religious and industrial destinations like Chitrakoot and Maihar. The terminal building spans 768 square meters and is equipped to handle 50 peak-hour passengers and up to 2.5 lakh passengers annually. Modern amenities, a recarpeted runway, apron facilities for Dornier-228 aircraft, and supporting infrastructure including an ATC tower and fire station position the airport to enhance regional mobility. Sustainable features such as 100 percent LED lighting, solar-powered streetlights, and the reuse of treated water for horticulture underscore the environmentally conscious approach taken in its construction.
The upgraded Datia Airport, built at a cost of Rs 60.63 crore, connects the spiritually significant and architecturally rich town of Datia to India’s aviation network. The airport’s 768-square-meter terminal can accommodate 150 peak-hour passengers, with an annual capacity of 2.5 lakh. It is fully operational for ATR-72 aircraft, with plans to eventually handle A-320 aircraft. Datia Airport will serve pilgrims and tourists visiting iconic sites such as the Peetambara Peeth and the Datia Palace. Key infrastructure includes a recarpeted runway, apron bays, an ATC tower, and a fire station. The facility is also equipped with rainwater harvesting systems and energy-efficient lighting.
The operational launch of the Satna and Datia airports is expected to generate substantial economic and social benefits, including improved regional connectivity, job creation, and growth in sectors like hospitality, retail, education, and healthcare. These developments reflect the government’s commitment to reaching the last mile and modernizing India’s aviation landscape.
The inauguration ceremonies were attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai C. Patel, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Deputy Chief Ministers Rajendra Shukla and Jagdish Devda, Ministry of Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha, Airports Authority of India Chairman Vipin Kumar, and other senior officials and public representatives. (ANI)
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