00 Chief Minister virtually launches Ambikapur-Delhi-Kolkata air travel
00 Direct connectivity of the region with the capital Delhi will boost trade, tourism and economic activitiesCabinet Minister Agarwal and Surguja MP expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister for the air service.Raipur. Taking a significant step towards strengthening air connectivity in the state, Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai today virtually inaugurated the Ambikapur-Delhi-Kolkata air service from the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose State Police Academy, Chandkhuri. On this occasion, he said that the state government is continuously striving to connect the state's major cities with air services, so that the general public can also benefit from accessible air travel.

The Chief Minister stated that the Prime Minister envisioned that even a person wearing slippers should be able to travel by air, and this dream is now becoming a reality in Chhattisgarh. Congratulating the citizens of the Surguja region, he said that this important facility has been made possible through the efforts of public representatives and the regional MP. Direct connectivity to the capital, Delhi, and Kolkata, will boost trade, tourism, and economic activities in the region. He further stated that air services are being continuously expanded in the state, and night landing facilities have recently been introduced at Bilaspur Airport. The budget also includes provisions for the smooth operation of domestic air services through the CG Vayu Yojana. The launch of cargo services at Raipur Airport will help bring the state's local products to national and international markets.

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma stated on this occasion that the operation of a 72-seater aircraft in Ambikapur (Darima) will further strengthen connectivity between Delhi, Ambikapur, and Kolkata. He commended the Chief Minister's efforts, stating that this has provided significant convenience to the state. He also informed that, along with the launch of night landing facilities in Bilaspur, air connectivity is also being expanded in Jagdalpur in southern Chhattisgarh. Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal and Surguja MP Shri Chintamani Maharaj also virtually congratulated the Chief Minister on this initiative. 
It is noteworthy that passengers will be able to travel in both directions as per the scheduled schedule, and the connectivity of the Bilaspur region will also be strengthened. Ambikapur, the headquarters of the Surguja division, is a major administrative, educational, and commercial center in northern Chhattisgarh. This region is rich in natural resources, forest wealth, and mineral deposits. Furthermore, tourist destinations like Mainpat, Tatapani, and various waterfalls offer immense tourism potential. The
launch of air service will connect the Surguja division directly to the national capital, Delhi. This will accelerate business activities, increase investment opportunities and provide a national market to local products. 

Alliance Air Flight Schedule (4 days a week)
These flights will be operated by Alliance Air. For passenger convenience, ticket booking has opened on the official website.
It is noteworthy that Maa Mahamaya Airport, Darima, was developed under the Central Government's Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN). Built in 1950, the runway was expanded from 1500 meters to 1800 meters, allowing larger aircraft like ATRs to operate. Maa Mahamaya Airport, Darima, Ambikapur, spans approximately 365 acres. Approval for civil and electrification work at the airport totaled ₹48.25 crore, ensuring all work has been completed in accordance with DGCA standards. The Maa Mahamaya Airport terminal building has been upgraded to accommodate 72 passengers. A four-lane road leading to the terminal building has been constructed, along with parking for approximately 100 vehicles.
Delhi Route (Monday & Wednesday)
Monday (Flight No. 91613): Arrives at Ambikapur from Delhi via Bilaspur at 11:35 AM. On return, will fly directly from Ambikapur to Delhi at 12:00 PM. Wednesday (Flight No. 91614): Arrives at Ambikapur from Delhi at 10:25 AM and departs at Delhi via Bilaspur at 12:00 PM.
Kolkata Route (Thursday & Saturday)
Saturday (Flight No. 91763): Arrives at Ambikapur from Kolkata via Bilaspur at 10:00 AM and departs directly to Kolkata at 10:25 AM. Thursday (Flight No. 91765): Arrives at Ambikapur from Kolkata at 08:50 AM and departs at Kolkata via Bilaspur at 09:15 AM.