By Kavita Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News
Patna, July 18, 2026: In a major boost to Bihar’s tourism and aviation sectors, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Saturday launched the ‘Patna Joy Ride’ under the Chief Minister Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme-2026 by handing over tickets to the first group of tourists.
Samrat Choudhary also inaugurated the newly constructed State Hangar of the Bihar Flying Institute at the Patna Airport complex.
Samrat Choudhary handed over certificates to pilots:
On the occasion, the Chief Minister presented Commercial Pilot License (CPL) certificates to four successful trainees—Captain Kumar Dhairya, Captain Genius Vivek, Captain Karan Kumar Bharti, and Captain Sonal Man Singh—and wished them success in their aviation careers.
Addressing the gathering, Samrat Choudhary said the initiative would give Bihar a new identity in the fields of tourism and aviation while creating fresh opportunities for employment, investment, and economic development.
Launching the heli-tourism service from the State Hangar in Patna, the Chief Minister flagged off the ‘Patna Joy Ride,’ enabling tourists and residents to experience an aerial tour of the state capital and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
He said the Chief Minister Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme-2026 is aimed at showcasing Bihar’s historical, religious, cultural, and natural heritage from the air, thereby attracting more tourists and encouraging investments in the tourism sector.
The scheme is also expected to generate local employment while offering visitors a safe and memorable flying experience.
Samrat Choudhary encouraged Bihar’s youth to pursue careers in aviation, describing it as a sector driven by advanced technology and immense future potential.
Heli-tourism will cover three destinations:
Tourism Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh said the first phase of the scheme will cover Valmikinagar (West Champaran), Rajgir (Nalanda), and the Maa Mundeshwari temple in Kaimur.
Under the scheme, a state-owned aircraft will operate on the Patna—Valmikinagar—Patna route.
The 6-plus-2-seater chartered every day will be deployed on the Patna—Rajgir—Patna and Patna—Kaimur (Karamchat Dam helipad)—Patna routes.
A maximum of five tourist seats will be available on each flight, and services will operate on Saturday and Sunday every day, allowing tourists to travel according to a fixed schedule.
The state government believes the initiative will significantly strengthen Bihar’s tourism ecosystem by improving air connectivity to key destinations and providing visitors with a unique perspective of the state’s renowned heritage sites.
EOM.
