Jharsuguda Airport (JRG)

Veer Surendra Sai Airport (IATA: JRG, ICAO: VEJH), located in Jharsuguda, Odisha, is a key domestic airport serving the industrial and commercial regions of Western Odisha. As a vital node in India's regional connectivity scheme, it provides crucial air links for cities like Sambalpur, Rourkela, and Jharsuguda itself, significantly reducing travel time to major metropolitan centers. The airport was developed from an airstrip first established during World War II. After years of limited use, it was extensively redeveloped and inaugurated for commercial passenger services in September 2018 under the government's UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme. It is named in honor of Veer Surendra Sai, a revered freedom fighter from the region, reflecting its deep cultural and historical significance.

Situated approximately six kilometers northeast of the Jharsuguda city center, the airport is easily accessible via road. Travelers typically reach the facility using local taxis, auto-rickshaws, or pre-booked private car services, with the journey from the main town taking around 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. The airport operates exclusively domestic flights, connecting Jharsuguda to major Indian hubs. Prominent airlines such as IndiGo and Alliance Air offer regular services to cities including Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. While it is a relatively small airport, it handles a significant volume of passenger traffic for a regional facility, playing a critical role in the area's economic development.

The airport features a single, modern integrated terminal building designed to handle both arrivals and departures efficiently. Inside, passengers will find essential amenities including check-in counters, a security hold area, and baggage claim facilities. For passenger comfort, there is a passenger lounge available, along with a limited selection of food and beverage stalls and small retail shops for last-minute needs. The facilities are clean and functional, designed for a smooth and quick transit experience. For travelers using the airport, arriving 90 minutes to two hours before a scheduled departure is generally sufficient. It is advisable to arrange for transportation from the airport in advance, although taxi services are available on arrival. As a point-to-point airport, it is not a major hub for connecting flights, so passengers with onward journeys should plan their connections through larger airports.