Bhubaneawar, October 28: The Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) and the Airport Authority of India (AAI) on Friday signed an Operation and Management (O&M) agreement in New Delhi to facilitate commercial operations from Rourkela.
According to a Ministry of Steel statement, SAIL had signed a MOU for the use of its own airport, under the UDAN scheme, for the operation of commercial flights in 2018.
“Now, SAIL has signed the O&M contract with AAI, through its Rourkela Steel Plant, to facilitate the commencement of commercial flights from Rourkela,” it stated.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has provided financial support for the up-gradation of this airport.
“The Government of Odisha will provide the security, fire, and ambulance services, besides helping with other local clearances. AAI, on behalf of SAIL-Rourkela Steel Plant, will operate and manage the airport,” it added.
The commencement of air services is important in view of the forthcoming Hockey World Cup, where 20 out of the total 44 matches are being held at Rourkela in January 2023. This global event will witness a huge footfall in Rourkela during the period and the requirement for air connectivity to the city will be a major necessity for logistical reasons.
