UDAN Scheme Takes Flight with 519 Operational Routes

New Delhi:  In a recent update, Minister of State in the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Gen. (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd), provided insights into the progress of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – UdeDeshkaAamNagrik (UDAN) since its inception. As of now, a total of 519 routes have been operationalized under the UDAN scheme, marking a significant stride in enhancing regional air connectivity.

The UDAN initiative has led to the operationalization of 76 airports, inclusive of 2 water aerodromes and 9 heliports. Furthermore, four airports are prepared for the commencement of RCS flights, while development works for nine airports/heliports have been successfully completed, with licensing procedures currently underway. Simultaneously, progress is being made in the development of 17 additional airports/heliports under the UDAN scheme, while plans are being formulated for the remaining airports.

However, amidst these achievements, challenges persist. Presently, 18 airports, including 2 water aerodromes, are temporarily non-operational due to various reasons. Factors such as the closure of airlines like Jet Airways, Zoom Air, TruJet, Deccan Air, and Air Odisha, coupled with issues like higher maintenance costs, lower availability of trained pilots, and the absence of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in the country contribute to the temporary suspension of these airports.

Additionally, the completion of the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) tenure of three years, a shortage of aircraft, spare parts, engines, and low Passenger Load Factors (PLF) have also played a role in rendering 18 airports non-operational.

Gen. (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd) acknowledged these challenges in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, emphasizing the need for continuous efforts to address these issues and sustain the growth momentum of the UDAN scheme. As the aviation landscape evolves, the ministry remains committed to overcoming obstacles, ensuring that the UDAN initiative continues to connect previously underserved regions, fostering economic development and accessibility for all citizens.