Jamshedpur: Uncertainty continues to loom over the continuation of flight services from Jamshedpur, prompting senior public representatives to seek immediate intervention from Tata Steel in the larger public interest. Bidyut Baran Mahto, Jamshedpur MP, and Saryu Roy, Jamshedpur West MLA, have stressed that uninterrupted air connectivity is now a necessity for the city’s economic growth, industrial activity, and regional integration.
The leaders said that as a major industrial and commercial hub of Jharkhand, Jamshedpur cannot afford any disruption in air services at a time when it is working to strengthen its position on the national economic map. They underlined that all possible efforts would be made to ensure the continuation of flight operations from Sonari Airport.
MP Takes Up Matter With Tata Steel
MP Bidyut Baran Mahto said he has already raised the issue at the highest level of Tata Steel management.
“I spoke to the Managing Director of Tata Steel three days ago regarding concerns over the possible suspension of flights from Sonari Airport and requested immediate steps to ensure continuity of air services from Jamshedpur,” he said.
Mahto added that although he is currently in West Bengal for an election-related meeting, he would personally engage with all stakeholders, including Tata Steel and aviation authorities, upon his return to Jamshedpur.
“Air connectivity is crucial for Jamshedpur’s development. I will ensure discussions are held with all concerned parties so that flight services continue without interruption,” he said.
MLA Appeals for Continued Institutional Support
Echoing similar concerns, Jamshedpur West MLA Saryu Roy said air connectivity plays a vital role in the city’s growth and its linkage with major economic centres. He appealed directly to T V Narendran, Managing Director and CEO of Tata Steel, to ensure continued institutional support for flight operations.
Roy said that while issues related to the Union Civil Aviation Ministry and policy matters could be addressed at appropriate forums, the immediate priority should be to ensure that existing flight services from Jamshedpur are not affected. He stressed that air services should be viewed from a broader public interest perspective.
Tata Steel Seeks RCS Extension, Assures Support
Meanwhile, Tata Steel MD and CEO T V Narendran, while speaking to the media after inaugurating an event at the JRD Tata Sports Complex, said the company would continue to bear expenses related to landing charges, parking fees and terminal management at Sonari Airport, provided the Centre grants an extension of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) for Jamshedpur.
Possible Suspension of Jamshedpur Flight Routes
Sources indicated that flight services from Jamshedpur to Kolkata may be discontinued from January 31, while the Bhubaneswar route could end from February 28. The reports have triggered concern among residents, industry bodies and public representatives.
The daily flight connecting Jamshedpur with Kolkata and Bhubaneswar was launched in February 2023 by Jyotiraditya Scindia in the presence of Hemant Soren. The launch was widely seen as a major boost to Jharkhand’s aviation network and Jamshedpur’s regional connectivity.
IndiaOne Air Operations
The service is currently operated by IndiaOne Air, an Ahmedabad-based regional airline, using a nine-seater Grand Caravan EX (C208B) aircraft on the Bhubaneswar–Jamshedpur–Kolkata sector. Despite repeated attempts, the airline could not be contacted for comment.
With uncertainty persisting, the coming days will be crucial in determining the future of air services from Jamshedpur, as stakeholders await clarity on the continuation of flight operations.
