With Odisha’s aviation sector on an upward trajectory, the state government has begun developing an Aviation Security Training Institute (ASTI) in Bhubaneswar
The facility, being established through a public-private partnership (PPP), will come up at the site of the former Government Aviation Training Institute within the premises of Biju Patnaik International Airport
With Odisha’s aviation sector on an upward trajectory, the state government has begun developing an Aviation Security Training Institute (ASTI) in Bhubaneswar to address mounting concerns around airport readiness and security staffing.
The facility, being established through a public-private partnership (PPP), will come up at the site of the former Government Aviation Training Institute within the premises of Biju Patnaik International Airport. Authorities say the initiative aims to train aviation security personnel for both operational and upcoming airports across the state.
As Odisha builds out its regional airport network under the UDAN scheme and other air connectivity projects, the demand for skilled aviation workers — particularly in the security domain — has surged. Officials involved in the project said ASTI will help fill this critical gap, producing a steady stream of trained professionals for airside and terminal operations, screening, and emergency response.
“This institute is not just about training individuals for airport screening — it’s about building a safety-first ecosystem across Odisha’s growing aviation grid,” said one official familiar with the project.
The institute is expected to offer advanced simulation-based training and integrate global best practices into its curriculum, aligning with the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) protocols. In addition to security personnel, ASTI will provide capacity-building programmes for broader airport staff, covering compliance, disaster preparedness, and risk mitigation.
The choice of Bhubaneswar — the busiest airport in the state — as the hub for this training centre is seen as strategic. The city is well-connected and centrally located in relation to newer airports coming up in Rourkela, Jharsuguda and Jeypore, making it a logical anchor for aviation skill development.
Industry experts have welcomed the move, noting that while airport infrastructure in India is expanding rapidly, workforce readiness has often lagged behind.
“As Odisha emerges as a regional aviation gateway in eastern India, ensuring the safety and operational efficiency of its airports will depend heavily on the quality of its human capital,” said an aviation consultant.
The institute is also expected to function as a refresher and certification centre for existing airport personnel, further supporting the state’s aim of building a sustainable and secure air travel ecosystem.
Officials believe ASTI will not only boost aviation security capabilities but also generate skilled employment, contributing to both economic growth and improved regional connectivity. With construction underway, the institute is being viewed as a critical step in preparing Odisha’s aviation sector for the future.
