Home / Business and Economy / UDAN Scheme Flies Higher: Rs 60K Crore Impact Expected
UDAN Scheme Flies Higher: Rs 60K Crore Impact Expected
22 Sep
Summary
- UDAN scheme extended for 10 more years, projecting Rs 60,000 crore economic impact.
- New airport development model aims to speed up construction to 18 months.
- Government targets five airlines to operate fleets of 100+ aircraft each.
The Indian government has extended the UDAN regional connectivity scheme for an additional ten years, projecting an economic impact of up to Rs 60,000 crore. This initiative, which has completed a decade, has successfully made over 90 airports operational and provided subsidized air travel to approximately 1.54 crore passengers. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is finalizing agreements with all states for this next phase.
A significant shift in airport development strategy involves a new challenge-based model designed to expedite construction. Projects are now expected to be completed within 18 months of commencement, a notable reduction from the previous average gestation period of three years. The government plans to invest nearly Rs 30,000 crore over the coming decade for the scheme.
Further plans include fostering the growth of domestic airlines, with a goal for at least five airlines to operate fleets of 100 aircraft or more. This expansion aligns with the vision of having over 350 operational airports by 2047. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation continues to monitor SpiceJet closely for operational and financial matters, prioritizing passenger safety above all.
