The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme has revolutionized India's civil aviation sector, improving regional connectivity and making air travel accessible to millions across the country. On November 17, the domestic aviation sector marked a historic achievement, with 505,412 passengers flying on the same day for the first time, crossing the 5-lakh milestone in daily passenger numbers. This feat, with over 3,100 flights operating nationwide, highlights India's increasing role in the global aviation scene.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation credited the UDAN scheme for this transformation, noting that it has successfully operationalized 609 routes, including helicopter services, connecting various states and union territories across India. The scheme has not only enhanced connectivity but also brought air travel closer to the common man, bridging the gap between aspirations and accessibility.
Since its launch on October 21, 2016, the UDAN scheme has seen significant milestones, with the first UDAN flight taking off on April 27, 2017, connecting Shimla to Delhi. The latest UDAN 5.0 series (covering 5.0 to 5.4 phases) has introduced key improvements, such as removing distance caps, prioritizing operational airports, expanding helicopter and small aircraft services, and reactivating discontinued routes. These changes have ensured better air connectivity and affordability across India, especially for smaller cities and towns.
The scheme has been a lifeline for regional carriers like Flybig, Star Air, IndiaOne Air, and Fly91, which have adopted sustainable business models, benefiting from the increased demand for regional air travel. The government's decision to extend the UDAN scheme for another 10 years is expected to further improve connectivity to underserved regions, fulfilling the aspirations of common citizens. As of October, 1.44 crore passengers have benefited from the scheme, with 609 routes and 86 airports now operational.
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