The Madhya Pradesh Aviation Department has officially initiated a major push to transform Raja Bhoj International Airport in Bhopal into a global hub. To achieve this, a ‘Request for Proposal’ (RFP) has been issued to invite scheduled airline operators to start direct services to prominent national and international destinations. The primary objective is to establish seamless connectivity between Bhopal and major cities including Kolkata, Jaipur, Dehradun, Chennai, Srinagar and Chandigarh. Interested airline companies are required to submit their bids by May 29, before 6 pm. Substantial financial incentives for airline operators: In a strategic move to attract carriers, the State Government has announced a comprehensive financial incentive scheme for companies launching new routes from the capital. Under this policy, airlines starting new domestic flights will receive a subsidy of Rs 1,000 per kilometre per round trip, capped at a maximum of Rs 10 lakh. For international operations, the incentive remains at Rs 1,000 per kilometre per round trip but features a higher ceiling of Rs 15 lakh. This financial support will be provided for an initial duration of six months, with the possibility of a six-month extension based on performance and necessity. Advanced infrastructure ready for global standards: Raja Bhoj Airport is technically equipped and licensed to handle 4D category aircraft operations.

 

The facility is already outfitted with international standard amenities, including an Immigration Check Post (ICP) and comprehensive Customs services. To ensure safety during adverse weather and low visibility, the airport utilises a sophisticated ‘CAT-II IFR’ (Instrument Flight Rules) system. Furthermore, the airport offers round-the-clock (H24) operational capabilities, making it a highly viable and attractive base for international flight schedules. Surging passenger traffic and high load factors: Recent data from the airport management indicates a steady climb in passenger footfall, with daily traffic exceeding 5,000 commuters and annual numbers surpassing the 8 lakh mark. While the current terminal has an annual capacity of 2.5 million passengers, the most significant indicator for airlines is the consistent ‘load factor,’ which remains high at over 90 percent. This high demand signifies that new routes are likely to be economically sustainable and profitable for airlines from the outset. Currently, direct flight options from Bhopal are limited to a few hubs like Delhi and Hyderabad. The new policy aims to drastically widen this net to include Srinagar, Chennai, Kerala, Dehradun, Kolkata, Jaipur, Chandigarh, and Jammu. Beyond domestic expansion, commencement of the international flights is expected.