On the historic occasion of Madhya Pradesh’s 70th Foundation Day, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav inaugurated the PM Shri Helicopter Tourism Service, making the state the first in India to launch intrastate air connectivity. The landmark initiative connects spirituality, nature, and modern aviation, offering travelers and tourists a unique experience that blends comfort, culture, and convenience.
Launching the service at Raja Bhoj International Airport, Dr. Yadav said, “We are not just connecting distances, but connecting hearts.” The PM Shri Tourism Helicopter Service aims to provide easy access to major pilgrimage and tourist destinations, saving time while enriching the travel experience. The Chief Minister also inaugurated new airport facilities including Digi Yatra system, Flybrary, Kids Play Zone, and the Category II ILS system, enhancing Madhya Pradesh’s aviation infrastructure.
The helicopter service will operate across three major tourism sectors in its initial phase:
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From Indore to Ujjain and Omkareshwar.
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From Bhopal to Madhai and Pachmarhi.
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From Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh and Kanha.
Starting November 20, these routes will allow visitors to travel between spiritual, wildlife, and heritage sites within an hour, turning a five hour road trip into a forty five minute journey. The project also promises to boost employment, rural entrepreneurship, homestays, and eco tourism, benefiting local communities and self help groups.
The Chief Minister emphasized that tourism is a strong pillar of the state’s economy. His government aims to double tourist arrivals by 2030 and expand the tourism based economy to Rupees 50,000 crore. New initiatives under the Devi Ahilya Women Empowerment Mission will train women in hospitality, crafts, and tourism services, ensuring inclusive growth.
Madhya Pradesh now operates nine airports, with Ujjain Airport under development as the newest addition. Dr. Yadav also confirmed that intrastate flights like Rewa Indore and Rewa Delhi will begin soon, further improving regional connectivity. The state’s air ambulance service, already operational under the PM Shri initiative, continues to provide lifesaving medical access to rural areas.
Senior ministers, legislators, and delegates from the Airport Authority of India attended the event where four helicopters were ceremonially flagged off from Bhopal to Ujjain. The service, run under a public private partnership, will operate five days a week with custom packages for travelers seeking pilgrimage, safari, or sightseeing tours.
Dr. Yadav described the launch as a major step toward an Aatmanirbhar and connected Madhya Pradesh, underscoring that tourism expansion is not only about better facilities but about empowering people, preserving heritage, and building a progressive future for every region of the state.
