What is UDAN Scheme? How You Can Fly For The Price Of A Pizza

The UDAN scheme, officially known as Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik, is a government initiative aimed at enhancing regional air connectivity across India and making air travel more accessible to the general public. Under this scheme, travellers can now fly on certain routes for a fraction of the cost, sometimes as low as the price of a small pizza.

Affordable Air Travel Across Assam

Thanks to the UDAN scheme, flying between destinations like Lilabari and Tezpur in Assam has become incredibly affordable. According to ixigo shared with PTI, with base airfares starting as low as Rs 150 per person, travellers can now hop between these locations without breaking the bank.

Extending Reach to Remote Areas

One of the key objectives of the UDAN scheme is to connect remote and under-served areas with major cities. As a result, there are now 22 routes across India where travellers can enjoy base airfares of less than Rs 1,000 per person, opening up new travel possibilities for many.

Incentives for Regional Connectivity

Airplane | Photo: Unsplash

To encourage airlines to participate in RCS flights, the government offers various incentives, including waiving landing and parking charges for these flights. This not only benefits travellers but also supports the aviation industry's efforts to expand regional connectivity.

Expanding the Network

Since its inception in 2016, the UDAN scheme has made significant strides in operationalising routes across the country. As of March 31, 2024, a total of 559 routes have been made operational under UDAN, providing greater accessibility and convenience to travellers nationwide.

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Making Air Travel Accessible to All

By offering affordable airfares and improving connectivity to remote areas, the UDAN scheme is democratising air travel in India. Whether it's for business or leisure, more people now have the opportunity to experience the convenience of flying at prices comparable to a meal out.

The UDAN scheme is revolutionising regional air connectivity in India, allowing passengers to fly to their destinations for the price of a pizza and making air travel more accessible to all.

What is the UDAN scheme?

UDAN, launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) on October 21, 2016, is a scheme designed to make air travel affordable and accessible to the general population. Its primary objective is to link previously unserved and underserved airports across the country with regular flight services. UDAN operates on a market-driven approach, wherein airlines compete for routes through a bidding process, taking into account their assessment of demand. This initiative aims to democratise air travel by expanding connectivity to regions that were previously neglected, thus fostering economic growth and facilitating easier movement for all citizens.

1.3 crore passengers travelled

UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) flights have facilitated travel for over 1.3 crore passengers, with a total of 256,000 flights operated as of February 2024. This underscores the significant impact of the UDAN scheme in enhancing regional air connectivity and making air travel accessible to the common citizen of India.

UDAN has brought about significant benefits to the country's aviation sector and overall connectivity infrastructure. Here's how:

1. Airport Development and Expansion

UDAN has played a crucial role in developing and operationalising 76 airports, including 2 water aerodromes and 9 helipads, across various regions of India. This expansion has enhanced accessibility to previously underserved areas, stimulating economic development and tourism.

2. Increased Passenger Traffic

The scheme has facilitated travel for more than 1.3 crore passengers, fostering greater mobility and connectivity for citizens across the country. By offering affordable airfares and expanding flight services to remote areas, UDAN has made air travel accessible to a wider segment of the population.

3. Diversification of Aircraft Procurement

UDAN has contributed to the diversification of aircraft procurement in the aviation industry. Airlines operating under the scheme have acquired various types of aircraft, ranging from small-capacity planes like the 3-seater Tecnam and 9-seater Cessna 208B to larger ones such as the 189-seater Airbus 320/321 and B737. This diversity caters to different route requirements and passenger demands.

4. Promotion of New Airlines and Start-ups

The scheme has provided a platform for new airlines and start-ups to enter the aviation market. Thirteen airlines, including emerging ventures like Air Taxi, IndiaOne, Star Air, FlyBig, and Fly91, have commenced operations under UDAN. This not only promotes competition but also encourages innovation and growth within the industry.

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