Madhya Pradesh has taken a pioneering leap in tourism by launching the PM Shri Tourism Helicopter Service. Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister, flagged off the service at Raja Bhoj International Airport, Bhopal, marking a historic milestone as the state becomes the first in the country to establish intrastate air connectivity.
Following the ceremonial flag-off by Dr. Yadav, four helicopters took off for Ujjain, symbolising the beginning of a new era in regional air tourism. Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trust & Endowment Minister (Independent Charge), Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, was also present at the event. Operated by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, this service will connect the state’s prominent tourist, religious, and wildlife destinations through convenient aerial routes. Regular operations will commence from November 20, 2025, across three key tourism sectors. The initiative has been developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture, Home, and Religious Trusts & Endowments, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, stated that the PM Shri Tourism Air Service—launched about a year ago to facilitate air travel for tourists—has already served more than 10,000 passengers. “Given Madhya Pradesh’s vast geography, the new helicopter service is a crucial step toward strengthening air connectivity within the state. This initiative will provide new momentum to tourism and further enhance Madhya Pradesh’s identity on the national and international tourism map,” he added.
To enhance air connectivity between major tourist destinations, pilgrimage circuits, and national parks, the helicopter service will operate across three tourism sectors. The PM Shri Tourism Helicopter Service will run five days a week in each sector. In the initial phase, private operators will deploy helicopters in each sector with a minimum seating capacity of six passengers.
The PM Shri Tourism Helicopter Service promises an end-to-end travel experience for tourists. The journey begins right at the traveller’s doorstep—with a comfortable taxi service to the helipad. Upon landing, hotel accommodations, temple visits, guided tours, and wildlife safaris are all seamlessly prearranged. Travellers only need to focus on enjoying every moment of their journey. As part of this comprehensive service, return travel arrangements are also included, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience. With this innovative initiative, Madhya Pradesh has once again reaffirmed its commitment to offering world-class tourism experiences, reinforcing its image as the Heart of Incredible India.