The only direct air connection between Bhubaneswar and Dubai, currently operated by IndiGo, is set to be discontinued from October 24. This service, which has been running three times a week, offered passengers in Odisha a convenient option for international travel to the UAE. The decision is expected to affect both leisure and business travellers who relied on this route for faster connectivity. The airline has not yet issued an official public statement explaining the reason for the suspension.
According to aviation schedule updates from AeroRoutes, the Bhubaneswar-Dubai flight no longer appears in IndiGo’s operational list after October 24. This omission is being viewed as confirmation that the service will be withdrawn. The route had been considered an important link for promoting tourism and trade ties between Odisha and the Gulf region, especially given Dubai’s role as a global travel hub.
The service was initially launched with the intention of boosting Bhubaneswar’s international connectivity. Operating three days a week, it allowed passengers to avoid stopovers in other Indian cities. For many flyers, the route reduced travel time significantly compared to alternative connections. The convenience also helped Odisha’s tourism industry tap into the Middle Eastern market, attracting both expatriates and tourists interested in exploring the state’s heritage and beaches.
Industry experts believe the discontinuation could be due to multiple factors such as route profitability, passenger load factors, and operational adjustments in IndiGo’s network. Airlines often review routes based on seasonal demand and financial performance, and in some cases, flights are temporarily suspended before being reinstated. However, with no official word from IndiGo, it remains unclear whether this is a permanent move or a strategic pause.
Travel and tourism stakeholders in Odisha have expressed concern over the decision. They argue that consistent international connections are essential for maintaining global visibility and attracting investment. The Bhubaneswar-Dubai route was particularly valuable for the state’s IT professionals, entrepreneurs, and students, as Dubai provided onward connections to Europe, North America, and Africa. Losing this direct link may push travellers to opt for flights from Kolkata or Hyderabad instead.
Passengers booked on flights scheduled after October 24 are advised to check with IndiGo for rebooking or refund options. Travel agents are also monitoring the situation closely to help affected travellers make alternative arrangements. While the withdrawal of this service is a setback for Bhubaneswar’s global connectivity, industry watchers hope that other carriers or even IndiGo itself might consider reintroducing the route in the future if demand remains strong.
