Jharsuguda: Star Air Airlines has suspended its Hyderabad–Jharsuguda–Bhubaneswar flight service from Monday until October 24, 2026, citing operational reasons, dealing a fresh blow to air connectivity between western Odisha and the state capital.
Airport sources confirmed that the airline has temporarily suspended operations on the sector due to operational issues.
Airport Sources said Star Air has already informed the government about the situation and sought an extension of Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for another six months to continue operations on the route. Rising Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices have reportedly affected the viability of the service.
The suspension assumes significance as the flight provided direct connectivity between Jharsuguda and Bhubaneswar, a long-standing requirement for residents of western Odisha.
At present, IndiGo remains the only airline operating from Veer Surendra Sai Airport, Jharsuguda, with services connecting the city to Delhi, Kolkata and Bengaluru.
The temporary withdrawal of the Bhubaneswar service is expected to particularly affect patients, students, government employees, business travellers and others who frequently travel between western Odisha and the state capital. Residents have urged the state and central governments to intervene and facilitate the early resumption of the service.
“Connectivity with Bhubaneswar is one of the most important requirements for western Odisha. The flight was particularly beneficial for patients and students as they could reach the state capital quickly. The government should take immediate steps to ensure that the service resumes at the earliest,” said a Jharsuguda resident.
