"Government Extends UDAN Scheme for 10 More Years, Aims for 350-400 Airports by 2047"

The government has announced a 10-year extension of the regional air connectivity scheme, UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik), as confirmed by Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu on Monday. Speaking at an event in the national capital to celebrate the scheme's eight-year milestone, the minister highlighted UDAN’s role in fostering the growth of regional airlines, creating jobs, and boosting tourism.

Since its inception on October 21, 2016, UDAN has successfully operationalized 601 routes and 71 airports, making air travel more accessible and affordable across the country.

Minister Naidu reiterated the commitment to extend the program for another decade, emphasizing its significance in enhancing regional air connectivity. Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam added that the ministry is currently assessing the scheme’s financial viability and working on streamlining its procedures.

The ministry reported that a total of 86 aerodromes, including 71 airports, 13 heliports, and 2 water aerodromes, have been operationalized, enabling over 1.44 crore passengers to travel on more than 2.8 lakh flights.

Additionally, the number of operational airports in India has nearly doubled from 74 in 2014 to 157 in 2024, with plans to increase this number to 350-400 by 2047.

HBL