UDAN scheme extended for 10 more years to boost regional air connectivity in India

New Delhi: The government will extend the regional air connectivity scheme UDAN for an additional 10 years, announced Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu on Monday. This announcement was made in the national capital during the celebration of eight years of the UDAN scheme.

So far, the scheme has operationalized 601 routes and 71 airports, contributing significantly to the growth of regional airlines, job creation, and tourism. UDAN, which stands for Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik, aims to improve regional air connectivity and make flying more affordable. It was initially launched on October 21, 2016, for a 10-year period.

The minister confirmed the extension of the scheme for another decade. Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam mentioned that the ministry is currently evaluating the financial viability and streamlining of procedures under the scheme.


In a press release on Sunday, the ministry stated, "A total of 86 aerodromes -- comprising 71 airports, 13 heliports, and 2 water aerodromes -- have been operationalised, facilitating the travel of over 1.44 crore passengers across more than 2.8 lakh flights."

Additionally, the number of operational airports in India has increased from 74 in 2014 to 157 in 2024. The goal is to expand this number to 350-400 by 2047.