In a landmark step to revolutionize tourism and regional connectivity, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated the state’s first helicopter service, marking a new chapter in the state’s travel and tourism landscape. The initiative, titled “PM Shri Tourism Helicopter Service,” was launched from Raja Bhoj International Airport in Bhopal on the occasion of Madhya Pradesh’s 70th Foundation Day.
Connecting Cities, Temples, and Forests by Air
The helicopter service aims to seamlessly link major tourist and spiritual destinations across Madhya Pradesh. In its initial phase, the service will operate on three major routes:
Bhopal–Pachmarhi–Madhai
Indore–Ujjain–Omkareshwar
Jabalpur–Kanha–Bandhavgarh
This first-of-its-kind initiative by any Indian state is designed to make travel faster, safer, and more enjoyable, allowing visitors to explore multiple destinations in a single day.
Chief Minister Yadav said, “We are not just connecting places, but also hearts and experiences. This helicopter service represents a leap toward making travel not only a mode of transport but a joyful journey.”
A Boost for Tourism and Rural Economy
Officials said the service will significantly cut travel time for tourists while enhancing the overall visitor experience. CM Yadav emphasized that the initiative will also generate local employment, promote homestay ventures, and uplift handicraft-based livelihoods in rural regions.
He further announced that the government’s broader aviation plan includes new airports in Ujjain—home to the sacred Mahakaleshwar Temple—and enhanced air connectivity across the state. “With Rewa, Satna, and Datia airports already operational, Madhya Pradesh is rapidly becoming an aviation hub,” he noted.
Public-Private Partnership and Launch Date
The helicopter service will operate five days a week under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model between Trans Bharat Aviation and Jet Serve Aviation Pvt Ltd.
Full-fledged operations will begin from November 20, offering end-to-end tourism packages—including local transport, accommodation, and guided tours—to ensure a hassle-free experience for travelers.
Vision 2030: Doubling Tourist Arrivals
Tourism Minister Dharmendra Singh Lodhi hailed the launch as a major milestone, saying, “Under Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s leadership, Madhya Pradesh’s tourism sector is touching new heights. This helicopter service will help us double tourist numbers by 2030.”
The event was attended by Minister Krishna Gaur, Airports Authority of India (AAI) Chairman Vipin Kumar, and several state MLAs, who lauded the initiative as a transformative step toward positioning Madhya Pradesh as India’s tourism powerhouse
