Rourkela Airport

Rourkela Airport Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Rourkela Airport, located in Chhend Colony within the industrial city of Rourkela, Odisha, has rapidly developed into a pivotal regional aviation hub. Initially established in the 1950s as a private airstrip for the Rourkela Steel Plant under the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), it has since transformed into a public commercial airport. Today, it enhances connectivity between western and northern Odisha and major cities like Kolkata and Bhubaneswar, playing a vital role in regional economic development and tourism. This guide provides a thorough overview of Rourkela Airport’s history, facilities, visitor details, expansion plans, and nearby attractions to ensure travelers enjoy a seamless experience (Magicbricks; New Indian Express; specialplacesofindia.com; OdishaTV).

Introduction
Historical Background
Modernization and Infrastructure
Visitor Information
Regional Significance
Rourkela Steel Plant Monument
Airport Expansion Plans
Summary and Visitor Tips
References

Historical Background

Origins and Early Development

Rourkela Airport was initially constructed by the Rourkela Steel Plant (SAIL) to support industrial operations, serving private and chartered flights for plant personnel and government officials. In the 1960s, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) began collaborating with SAIL to upgrade the facility, aligning with broader regional development goals (specialplacesofindia.com).

Transition to Public Commercial Operations

Recognizing the growing need for accessible air travel, the airport joined India’s UDAN scheme to foster affordable regional aviation. Commercial operations began in January 2023, with the airport now connecting Rourkela to Kolkata and Bhubaneswar, significantly reducing travel times for business and leisure travelers (Magicbricks).

Modernization and Infrastructure

Terminal and Facilities

The modern terminal, covering 5,785 square feet, accommodates up to 50 arriving and 50 departing passengers simultaneously. Amenities include:

Comfortable waiting areas
Check-in counters and security screening
Baggage handling
Food and beverage outlets
Accessibility features such as wheelchair support
Interiors showcasing Odisha’s cultural heritage

Runway and Technological Upgrades

The 1,930-meter runway supports small to medium aircraft and meets DGCA standards. Planned upgrades will extend the runway to 2,700 meters, enabling operations for larger aircraft like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. The airport is also equipped with:

Digital flight information systems
CCTV surveillance
Automated baggage handling
Advanced navigational aids: DVOR, Category I ILS for safe, all-weather, and night operations (OdishaTV)

Sustainability and Expansion

Efforts toward sustainability include energy-efficient lighting and waste management. Expansion plans focus on accommodating increased passenger volumes and larger aircraft, with additional aircraft bays and terminal enhancements in the pipeline (Magicbricks).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Rourkela Airport operates daily, typically from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Timings may vary with flight schedules, so travelers should check airline or airport notifications before visiting.

Ticketing

Tickets are available via airline websites (e.g., Alliance Air), authorized travel agents, and popular online travel portals. Due to limited daily flights, advance booking is advised.

Accessibility

The airport provides wheelchair access, assistance for elderly and differently-abled travelers, and dedicated help desks. Facilities meet standard accessibility requirements.

Special Events and Photography

While no guided tours are currently offered, the terminal’s design presents ample photography opportunities. Visitors are encouraged to follow security protocols.

Airlines and Destinations

As of June 2025, Alliance Air operates scheduled flights to Kolkata and Bhubaneswar (Magicbricks).

Ground Transportation

Transportation options include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and the Odisha State Government’s Mo Bus service, which provides cost-effective and frequent connections to the city center (Rail Bus Air Info).

Travel Tips

Check for updates on flight schedules and airport hours.
Arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure.
Utilize the Mo Bus for reliable and affordable transfers.
Plan visits to nearby attractions like Mandira Dam, Vedvyas, and Khandadhar Waterfall.

Regional Significance

Boosting Connectivity

Before 2023, Rourkela residents relied on distant airports such as Jharsuguda or Bhubaneswar. Rourkela Airport has cut travel times and improved accessibility, supporting the city’s status as an industrial and educational center.

Economic Impact

The airport drives growth in the steel, service, and tourism sectors, raises real estate values, and creates local employment opportunities (Magicbricks).

Tourism and Cultural Exchange

Improved air connectivity has made Rourkela’s cultural and natural attractions more accessible, supporting tourism and fostering cultural exchanges.

Rourkela Steel Plant Monument: A Symbol of Industrial Heritage

Overview

Located near the Rourkela Steel Plant, this monument celebrates the city’s industrial legacy and its role in India’s steel production. Inaugurated in the 1950s with German collaboration, the steel plant transformed Rourkela into an economic powerhouse.

Visiting Information

Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Entry: Free
Best Time: Early mornings or late afternoons for pleasant weather and optimal photography

Facilities

Wheelchair access and assistance
Clean restrooms and shaded seating
Information kiosks and guided tours (on request)

Highlights

Industrial-themed sculptures and plaques
Exhibits on steel production and local history
Panoramic views for photography

Nearby Attractions

Kundloi Waterfall
Mandira Dam
Vedavyas spiritual complex

Travel Tips

Carry water and sun protection
Drones require permission for use
Guided tours enhance the visitor experience

Rourkela Airport Expansion Plans

Infrastructure Upgrades

The airport is undergoing a major transformation, including:

Runway Extension: From 1,930 to 2,700 meters, widened to 45 meters, enabling larger aircraft operations (New Indian Express)
Advanced Navigational Aids: Installation of DVOR and Category I ILS for precision landings and night operations (OdishaTV)
Terminal Expansion: Modular design for scalable passenger capacity, showcasing local art (Wikipedia)

Land Acquisition and Project Coordination

Additional land (approx. 322 acres) is being acquired from SAIL and private owners. The Odisha government is proactively facilitating this process and covering planning and survey costs to expedite project milestones.

Regulatory Upgrades

Upgrading to a 4C airport category will allow larger aircraft and night operations. This is crucial for increasing route options and attracting new airlines, further integrating Rourkela into national and potential international aviation networks.

Economic and Urban Impact

The expansion will boost regional industrial, logistics, and tourism sectors, stimulate urban growth, and support major events and city development initiatives (Holidify).

Future Prospects

A phased master plan, with state and AAI collaboration, prioritizes runway and navigational upgrades, followed by terminal and support infrastructure. The vision includes eventually accommodating international operations.

Summary of Key Visitor Information and Tips

Airport Hours: 5:00 AM–10:00 PM (confirm before travel)
Tickets: Book online or via authorized agents; advance booking recommended
Accessibility: Wheelchair and assistance services available
Transport: Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and Mo Bus connect the airport to Rourkela city
Nearby Attractions: Hanuman Vatika, Khandadhar Waterfall, Rourkela Steel Plant Monument
Expansion: Ongoing upgrades will soon support larger aircraft and more flights

Rourkela Airport is not just a transit hub; it is a driver of the region’s economic integration and cultural vibrancy, supporting both industrial and tourism growth. Staying informed through official sources and travel apps like Audiala will ensure an efficient and enjoyable journey (Magicbricks; New Indian Express; specialplacesofindia.com; OdishaTV).