Operationalization of 625 UDAN Routes Benefits Over 1.49 Crore Passengers: Government Update
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Synopsis
The government has operationalized 625 UDAN routes connecting 90 airports in India, benefiting over 1.49 crore passengers with affordable regional air travel. The UDAN scheme has transformed aviation in India since its launch in 2016, integrating remote areas into the national transport framework and stimulating economic growth.
Key Takeaways
- 625 UDAN routes connecting 90 airports.
- 1.49 crore passengers have benefited.
- Launched in 2016, first flight was in 2017.
- Over 4,023 crore disbursed for connectivity.
- Strengthens regional tourism and healthcare.
New Delhi, April 26 (NationPress) The government announced on Saturday that a total of 625 UDAN routes have been successfully operationalised, linking 90 airports (which include 2 water aerodromes and 15 heliports) throughout India. Over 1.49 crore passengers have reaped the benefits of cost-effective regional air travel offered under the UDAN scheme.
The UDAN scheme, initiated on October 21, 2016, saw its inaugural flight between Shimla and Delhi on April 27, 2017.
India's airport infrastructure has seen growth from 74 airports in 2014 to 159 airports in 2024, effectively more than doubling within ten years.
According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, over 4,023 crore has been allocated as Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to enhance connectivity to less served and remote areas.
The UDAN initiative has significantly bolstered regional tourism, healthcare access, and trade, fostering economic development in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. The vision of affordable air travel for the average citizen began to materialize with the launch of the first UDAN flight.
Formulated under the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016, the UDAN scheme has a decade-long vision aimed at connecting tier-2 and tier-3 cities through a sustainable, market-oriented model. The program provides incentives to airlines through concessions and VGF to operate on regional routes, ensuring affordable prices and enhanced access.
Since its inception in 2016, the UDAN scheme has progressed through several rounds, continually broadening the scope and scale of India's regional air connectivity.
“UDAN is more than just a policy — it represents a transformative movement that has reshaped the aviation landscape in India. By linking the skies between Bharat and India, the initiative has made the dream of affordable air travel a reality for countless citizens,” stated the ministry.
“It has not only integrated remote regions into the national aviation framework but has also invigorated local economies, enhanced tourism, and created job opportunities nationwide. As India strides towards becoming a global aviation leader, UDAN stands as a beacon of inclusive growth, resilience, and visionary governance, embodying the aspirations of a new India, one flight at a time,” it added.
