Iconic Dakota To Resemble Odisha’s Rich Aviation History and Biju Patnaik’s Bravery and Heroics

Bhubaneswar: The iconic Dakota (DC-3) Aircraft (VT-AUI) that has been unveiled at the Biju Patnaik International Airport today by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik belongs to the erstwhile Kalinga Airlines founded by Late Biju Patnaik, former Chief Minister of Odisha. The said airlines operated nearly a dozen Dakotas and Biju Babu was its Chief Pilot. This Aircraft was used by him to rescue former Indonesian Vice-President Md. Hatta and former Prime Minister Sutan Sjahrir.

For his efforts, Biju Patnaik was given an honorary citizenship of Indonesia and awarded the title of “BHUMI PUTRA” by the Indonesian Government, a recognition rarely granted to a foreigner.

Since this aircraft is closely associated with Biju Patnaik, it will resemble Odisha’s rich aviation history which would be a befitting tribute to one of the most iconic personality of Odisha. People will see this Dakota Aircraft as a memento of Late Biju Patnaik’s bravery and heroics.

With the sincere efforts of Government of Odisha, the Dakota Aircraft was shifted from NSCBI Airport, Kolkata to Bhubaneswar on 18.01.2023 by road. The display of this Aircraft will inspire the people of Odisha and propel them to Dream Big.