Transforming Regional Air Travel
Nine Years of UDAN Connecting India Through Affordable Regional Air Travel: The UDAN Scheme (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), launched on 21 October 2016 under the National Civil Aviation Policy, has completed nine successful years. Implemented by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, it aims to make air travel affordable and to link unserved and underserved regions across India. Over the years, the initiative has enabled 1.56 crore passengers through 3.23 lakh flights, symbolizing a new era of regional inclusivity.
Static GK fact: The UDAN Scheme operates on the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) model, wherein both the Centre and State governments share the cost of subsidizing routes to ensure affordable fares.
Expanding Connectivity and Impact
At the 9th anniversary celebration in New Delhi, Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha termed UDAN a “transformational initiative.” The scheme has operationalized 649 routes, connecting 93 airports, 15 heliports, and 2 water aerodromes. It has democratized air travel while boosting tourism, employment, and regional economic growth.
Since inception, over ₹4,300 crore has been disbursed as VGF, and ₹4,638 crore has been invested in airport infrastructure. These figures underscore UDAN’s critical role in supporting India’s ambition of balanced regional development.
Static GK Tip: The first UDAN flight operated between Shimla and Delhi on April 27, 2017, flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Inclusive and Sustainable Growth
The UDAN framework now extends beyond aviation accessibility—it supports inclusive socio-economic growth. The Expanded UDAN Framework, effective until April 2027, focuses on enhancing air connectivity in hilly terrains, North-Eastern states, and aspirational districts. This ensures no region remains isolated from India’s growth map.
Enhanced air links have resulted in better healthcare access, education mobility, and employment opportunities, especially in geographically challenging areas. The scheme thus integrates regional aspirations into the national growth narrative.
Static GK fact: The North-Eastern region has received special attention under UDAN, with Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh witnessing new airport connectivity for the first time.
Innovations in Air Mobility
The latest phase, UDAN 5.5, introduces a special bidding round for seaplanes and helicopter connectivity, particularly in coastal and island regions. This diversification aims to promote tourism and overcome infrastructure limitations in remote areas.
Key outcomes under UDAN 5.5 include the issuance of Letters of Intent for 150 new routes, plans to connect 30 water aerodromes, and the release of Comprehensive Seaplane Operation Guidelines. These developments demonstrate India’s commitment to expanding sustainable and diversified regional air mobility.
Static GK Tip: India’s first seaplane service under UDAN was launched between Kevadia (Statue of Unity) and Sabarmati Riverfront in Gujarat in 2020.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Nine Years of UDAN Connecting India Through Affordable Regional Air Travel:
| Topic | Detail |
| Launch Year | 2016 under National Civil Aviation Policy |
| Implementing Ministry | Ministry of Civil Aviation |
| Passengers Served | 1.56 crore |
| Routes Operationalised | 649 |
| Flights Facilitated | 3.23 lakh |
| VGF Disbursed | ₹4,300 crore |
| Regional Airport Investment | ₹4,638 crore |
| Special Focus | North-Eastern and hilly regions |
| New Phase | UDAN 5.5 with seaplane and helicopter routes |
| Scheme Validity | Extended till April 2027 |
