Bhubaneswar: The iconic Dakota aircraft belonging to the legendary Statesman from Odisha, Biju Patnaik, finally arrived in Bhubaneswar today evening.
The aircraft, dismantled into three parts for transportation, headed straight to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), where it was greeted by a huge crowd.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik arrived at the airport for offering tribute to the Dakota plane of his father, the former Odisha CM.
Speaking to media persons at the BPIA, Naveen said that he was delighted that this legendary aircraft of Biju Babu has finally returned to Odisha.
“He (Biju Patnaik) had many historic exploits in this aircraft, the greatest of which was when he flew to Indonesia. And the only person in the aircraft was my mother, who was also his co-pilot.”
“He flew to Indonesia to rescue their independence leaders during their freedom struggle. That was his greatest adventure on this aircraft.”
Secretary to CM (5T) VK Pandian, BJD Organisational Secretary Pranab Prakash Das, officials and politcal leaders were present at BPIA along with the huge crowd to welcome Biju Patnaik’s Dakota, home.
