NEW DELHI- The Indian government is set to introduce a modified UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme to enhance regional air connectivity.
The revised UDAN Scheme aims to link 120 additional destinations over the next decade, benefiting approximately four crore passengers.
Photo: Mumbai CSMIA Airport Adani X pageUDAN to Connect 120 Destination
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting the Union Budget 2025-26, announced the expansion of the UDAN scheme.
This modification focuses on improving accessibility to remote areas, particularly in hilly and northeastern regions.
The initiative will integrate smaller airports and helipads to boost regional connectivity.
In addition to enhancing accessibility, the government plans to develop greenfield airports in Bihar.
This step is part of a broader infrastructure strategy to meet the growing air travel demand and support regional economic development.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private airport developers are executing a capital expenditure plan of over Rs 91,000 crore between FY20 and FY25.
As of November 2024, approximately 91% of this investment has been utilized. This funding supports airport expansion, technological advancements, and enhanced passenger facilities.
The government’s continued push for aviation infrastructure, alongside initiatives like UDAN, aligns with India’s broader vision of making air travel more accessible and efficient.
With strategic investments and policy enhancements, the country is set to accommodate increasing passenger volumes while fostering regional economic growth.
Photo: Indian GovtUDAN Scheme: Impact and Expansion
Launched in 2016, the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme has facilitated affordable air travel for over 1.4 crore passengers.
The initiative has operationalized 619 routes, connecting 88 airports, including two water aerodromes and 13 heliports. The scheme has played a crucial role in bridging connectivity gaps across India.
The Economic Survey 2024-25 highlighted that improved air connectivity through UDAN has significantly bolstered domestic air travel. The survey also noted that India remains the fastest-growing aviation market globally.
In response to increasing air traffic, Indian airlines have placed substantial aircraft orders, exceeding 1,700 planes, to expand their networks.
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Top Indian Airports Witnessed Tremendous Growth in 2024
The post UDAN Scheme Eyes 120 New Airports in Coming Decade | Budget 2025 appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
