Bhopal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the newly constructed Satna Airport and the upgraded Datia Airport in Madhya Pradesh on 31 May.
The inauguration is considered a major step forward for the Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand regions, aligning with the Centre’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme to democratize air travel across India.
The inauguration ceremonies were held at both airports with the presence of key dignitaries. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu attended the Datia event, while Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol participated at Satna.
Governor Mangubhai C Patel, Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and Deputy Chief Ministers Rajendra Shukla, as well as Jagdish Devda, were also present, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Addressing the gathering at Datia, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu described the airport as a symbol of the region’s spiritual and economic ascent.
He said the inauguration of both airports was a historic moment that would fuel economic activity and improve accessibility in remote areas of Madhya Pradesh.
The launch of these two airports is expected to boost local economies, create job opportunities, and enhance access to services such as healthcare, education and tourism.
Satna Airport
Built for Rs 36.96 crore, the Satna Airport has been developed by AAI as a major regional aviation facility for northeastern Madhya Pradesh.
Designed to handle 2.5 lakh passengers annually, the airport features a modern terminal building spread across 768 square meters, equipped with passenger amenities and sustainable infrastructure.
Its recarpeted runway and apron facilities support Dornier-228 aircraft, offering improved access to industrial and religious hubs such as Maihar and Chitrakoot.
Datia Airport
With an investment of Rs 60.63 crore, the upgraded Datia Airport aims to connect the culturally rich town to India’s aviation network.
The terminal building, with a handling capacity of 150 peak-hour passengers, is prepared for ATR-72 operations and is being readied for future expansion to accommodate larger aircraft.
The facility is designed to serve pilgrims visiting Peetambara Peeth and tourists exploring Datia’s heritage sites, while incorporating eco-friendly measures like rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient systems.
