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The government has confirmed that the UDAN regional air connectivity scheme will continue beyond April 2027, after successfully operationalising 649 routes connecting 93 unserved and underserved airports, including 15 heliports and 2 water aerodromes. Over 1.56 crore passengers have travelled on more than 3.23 lakh flights under the scheme. Airlines have received over INR 4,300 crore in Viability Gap Funding, while INR 4,638 crore has been invested in airport development. The expanded UDAN framework will focus on hilly, North Eastern, and aspirational regions, adding about 120 new destinations.
The government has announced that the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) regional air connectivity scheme will continue beyond April 2027, reflecting its important role in enhancing access to air travel across India. Launched in October 2016, UDAN began operations with its first flight between Shimla and Delhi in April 2017. Advertisement
Since its launch, the scheme has operationalised 649 routes connecting 93 previously unserved and underserved airports, which include 15 heliports and 2 water aerodromes. These routes have facilitated the travel of over 1.56 crore passengers through more than 3.23 lakh flights, significantly increasing regional mobility.
To support the operation of routes that may not be commercially viable, airlines have received over INR 4,300 crore in Viability Gap Funding (VGF). In parallel, INR 4,638 crore has been invested to enhance airport infrastructure, ensuring safer and more efficient operations at regional airports.
Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha highlighted that the ministry is committed to continuing the scheme through an expanded UDAN framework. The focus will be on improving connectivity to hilly terrains, North Eastern states, and aspirational areas while developing approximately 120 new destinations. The initiative aims to create stronger air links across the country, improve accessibility for remote communities, and support economic growth through enhanced regional connectivity.
Source PTI
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