9 Years of UDAN Scheme: Connecting India For Affordable Regional Air Travel

The UDAN Scheme (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), India’s flagship initiative under the National Civil Aviation Policy, has successfully completed nine years since its launch on 21st October 2016. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the scheme aims to make air travel affordable and accessible for the common citizen by enhancing regional air connectivity. Over the years, UDAN has proven to be a transformative project that has connected remote and underserved areas with mainstream air routes, facilitating over 1.56 crore passengers through 3.23 lakh flights.

Evolution and Impact of the UDAN Scheme

Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha, while addressing an event in New Delhi to mark the scheme’s 9th anniversary, called UDAN a “transformational initiative”. It has not only democratized air travel but has also boosted regional economies and tourism by connecting 93 unserved and underserved airports, including 15 heliports and 2 water aerodromes.

The scheme’s achievements over the past nine years include,

• 649 routes operationalised
• Over 1.56 crore passengers served
• 3.23 lakh flights facilitated
• More than ₹4,300 crore disbursed as Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to support airline operations and infrastructure
• ₹4,638 crore invested in the development of regional airports

These figures highlight UDAN’s pivotal role in making air travel part of India’s broader development narrative.

Focus on Inclusive and Sustainable Growth

The Ministry emphasized that UDAN is more than just an aviation scheme—it is a catalyst for inclusive growth. With the introduction of the Expanded UDAN Framework, the scheme will continue beyond April 2027, placing special emphasis on enhancing connectivity to hilly terrains, North-Eastern states, and aspirational districts.

This forward-looking approach ensures that remote communities are not left behind in India’s economic and infrastructural development. Improved connectivity also means better access to healthcare, education, and job markets for residents of these regions.

Innovations: Seaplanes and Helicopter Connectivity

In a move towards diversifying air travel options, the government has launched UDAN 5.5, a special bidding round focused on seaplane and helicopter services. This marks a significant expansion in regional connectivity, especially for coastal and island regions where traditional airport infrastructure may be lacking.

Key developments under UDAN 5.5 include,

• Issuance of Letters of Intent for 150 new routes
• Plans to connect 30 water aerodromes across India
• Introduction of Comprehensive Guidelines for Seaplane Operations
• These efforts not only enhance the tourist potential of scenic regions but also improve logistical access for remote and ecologically sensitive areas.