Madhya Pradesh plans to expand its aviation network by targeting an airport every 150 kilometres, an airstrip every 75 kilometres and a helipad every 45 kilometres, while developing permanent helipads in all 230 assembly constituencies under the state’s Civil Aviation Policy-2025.
The plan is intended to improve connectivity for remote districts and areas with tourism and industrial potential, while also supporting emergency medical services, government operations and international travel. Official sources cited by the Times of India said the state currently has eight operational airports, more than 20 airstrips and around 220 helipads.
Two additional airports at Ujjain and Shivpuri are under development. Once operational, they are expected to take the state’s airport count to 10. The Centre is also processing approvals for five new airports, with Singrauli receiving priority.
Under the regional connectivity scheme UDAN, Madhya Pradesh has proposed upgrading airstrips at Singrauli, Sagar, Neemuch, Chhindwara, Mandla, Khandwa, Ratlam, Mandsaur, Umaria and Shahdol into airports. The proposed expansion would extend aviation infrastructure beyond the state’s larger urban centres and provide closer access to districts currently dependent primarily on road and rail links.
The Datana-Matana airport in Ujjain is being developed under RCS-UDAN 5.2 and is expected to support travel during Simhastha-2028. Its first phase will include an 1,800-metre runway, with provision for a later extension to 2,700 metres. The project is being positioned as a key part of the state’s preparations for the large religious gathering.
The government is also planning to acquire a new aircraft for official and emergency operations. Officials said this would end the state’s dependence on chartered planes and could reduce monthly air-travel expenditure to around one-third of its current level.
Madhya Pradesh’s PM Shri Air Ambulance Service, launched on May 29, 2024, has transported 186 patients and accident victims so far, according to the report. Ayushman cardholders can use the service free of cost to reach government and Ayushman-empanelled hospitals within and outside the state.
The state’s heli-tourism network currently links destinations including Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Chanderi, Orchha, Maihar, Chitrakoot, Kanha and Bandhavgarh. More than 5,200 passengers have used the service, while over 680 joy rides have been conducted at Chanderi and Orchha.
International connectivity has also expanded from Indore, which now has direct flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The Indore-Abu Dhabi service is the first international flight from Madhya Pradesh supported under the state Civil Aviation Policy-2025. The flight takes about three hours and 15 minutes and is expected to strengthen links for business, tourism, trade and investment.
The proposed network will be implemented through a combination of new airports, upgrades to existing airstrips, permanent helipads and expanded emergency and tourism services. Ujjain and Shivpuri are the next major airport projects identified in the state’s current expansion plan.
