Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, on March 14, announced a significant initiative prioritising air services to key cities and tourist destinations for travel enthusiasts and pilgrims alike. Speaking at the launch event held at the State Hanger in Bhopal, the CM unveiled the PM Shri Tourism Air Service and PM Shri Religious Tourism Heli Service, marking a leap in MP's tourism infrastructure.
CM Yadav emphasised the state's geographical vastness and the necessity of complementing existing road and rail transport with air travel options. The newly introduced services aim to provide travellers with comfortable and time-efficient journeys, mainly targeting religious tourism hotspots and remote areas. The expansion plan includes extending air services to Datia, Maihar, and Orchha following the successful implementation in Ujjain and Omkareshwar. Further expanding accessibility, CM Yadav authorised the operation of Jhabua, Khargone, and Mandla airstrips during the ceremony.
"Madhya Pradesh Tourism will get wings," remarked Tourism Minister Shri Dharmendra Singh Lodhi, talking about the impact of the initiatives. These services will offer safe and affordable flights operated by twin-engine aircraft. This initiative is also expected to generate employment opportunities and enhance local economies by integrating remote areas into the tourism circuit.
Furthermore, Principal Secretary of the Tourism and Culture Department, Sheo Shekhar Shukla, revealed that Gurugram-based Flyola Aviation has been contracted to manage the operations of the PM Shri Tourism Air Service. Within two months, the organisation will finalise flight routes, establish ticket counters, and train local staff, paving the way for the commencement of regular services. The air fleet, comprising two 8-seater twin-engine aircraft, will connect major airports and smaller airstrips across the state.
Meanwhile, the PM Shri Religious Tourism Heli Service promises more accessibility to spiritual sites, particularly benefiting elderly and disabled devotees. With online bookings facilitated through platforms like the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Portal, Make My Trip and Agoda, pilgrims can effortlessly reach destinations such as Ujjain, Omkareshwar, and other religious landmarks.