India’s regional air connectivity scheme, UDAN, has enabled 1.72 crore passengers to travel by air and operationalised 687 routes across the country since its launch in October 2016, according to a Press Information Bureau backgrounder released ahead of the scheme’s tenth anniversary. The scheme has supported more than 3.68 lakh flights and helped operationalise 95 aerodromes, including heliports and water aerodromes.
UDAN aims to improve air connectivity to smaller cities and remote areas by encouraging airlines to operate routes that may not initially be commercially viable. The government has disbursed ₹5,091.23 crore in Viability Gap Funding (VGF) as of October 15 to support airline operations on regional routes. The scheme uses a combination of market-based selection, capped airfares, concessions, and VGF to incentivize airlines.
The expansion of regional aviation through UDAN has increased access to air travel in underserved and remote regions, supporting economic growth and mobility. The scheme’s approach contrasts with conventional commercial aviation by focusing on routes with limited viability, backed by government financial assistance. This model has operationalised a significant number of aerodromes and routes, contributing to the broader goal of regional development.
UDAN’s tenth anniversary marks a decade of sustained government efforts to enhance regional connectivity, with 687 routes currently operational and over ₹5,091 crore disbursed in funding. The scheme’s impact is reflected in the large passenger volume and infrastructure expansion, highlighting its role in transforming India’s regional aviation landscape.