On Monday, July 13, 2026, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary unveiled the ‘Chief Minister Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme-2026,’ aimed at enhancing travel to various tourist destinations within the state.
The initiative allows for government-operated helicopters to be booked for visits to tourist locations. With approval already granted for helicopter operations every Saturday and Sunday, residents and visitors can enjoy aerial views of Patna’s skyline. The announcement was made from the Chief Minister’s Secretariat.
In his address, Mr. Choudhary emphasized the goal of positioning Bihar on the global tourism map. He stated that this new scheme represents a transformative era for the state’s tourism sector, offering citizens an opportunity to engage in air tourism at competitive prices.
As part of this initiative, helicopter services will connect prominent tourist sites such as Patna, Rajgir, Valmikinagar, and Kaimur. The state government will subsidize tickets by up to ₹15,422, making it more accessible for tourists.
Regular helicopter services are set to commence on July 18, 2026, operating every weekend. The Chief Minister called on the Tourism Department to expand air tourism further and to involve private stakeholders in the venture.
“Tourism is not merely a means of travel but a strong foundation for employment, investment, and economic growth. The State government is committed to bolstering the tourism-based economy at the village level, promoting homestays, local handicrafts, folk culture, local cuisine, and rural tourism,”
Mr. Choudhary emphasized, noting the potential for new employment opportunities for youth and residents.
He encouraged citizens to actively promote Bihar’s culture, heritage, and tourist attractions through positive interaction and hospitality. By doing so, he believes every individual can become a tourism ambassador, further cementing the state’s identity both nationally and globally.
The Chief Minister also pointed to ongoing efforts by the Bihar government to develop world-class tourism infrastructure and the introduction of new tourism circuits. He mentioned that two major hotels are currently under construction in Patna, which are expected to contribute significantly to the state’s revenue.
“We must showcase our religious heritage, which includes sites associated with Buddha at Rajgir and Bodhgaya, Mahavira at Lakhisarai and Vishali, Baba Harihar Nath at Sonpur, and Ma Mangal Chandi Temple,”
Choudhary stated.
He proudly noted that the Bihar Museum is regarded as the best in the country, having received visits from none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He asserted that the new scheme would be a watershed moment for the state’s tourism sector, positioning Bihar among the leading tourism states in India and driving employment, investment, and broader economic development.
Accompanying Mr. Choudhary at the event were Deputy Chief Ministers Vijay Kumar Choudhary and Bijendra Prasad Yadav, Tourism Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta, and Tourism Department Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh.
