The Odisha government is planning to transform the Biju Patnaik Aerospace Academy (BPAA) a World-class Pilot Training Centre in a phased manner.
The BPAA at Birasal in Dhenkanal district is currently operating as an airstrip and a training centre for pilots. Currently, Government Aviation Training Institution (GATI) is operating the training program for pilots. The state government is planning to upgrade with infrastructural facilities and technological developments and transform it into a World-class pilot training centre. The BPAA will provide various aerospace related courses from piloting to aeronautical engineering, aero satellite and air hostess. The present target is to train 500 pilots per year.
An amount of Rs 550 crore capex has been earmarked by the Department of Commerce and Transport in the initial phase. While 187.77 aces of land has been identified for the project, the infrastructural development works will be commenced soon after the land acquisition. The Academic and administrative buildings, class rooms and hostel buildings are being part of the construction.