Maharashtra's UDAN Scheme Takes Off: 6 Airports Operational, 3 Under Development

The Ministry of Civil Aviation's initiative to invigorate and manage Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) flights under the UDAN scheme in Maharashtra has made significant strides, with six out of nine identified airports now operational. These airports, comprising Kolhapur, Jalgaon, Nanded, Nasik, Gondia, and Sindhudurg, are currently facilitating flights, while ongoing development initiatives are in progress at the remaining airports, as confirmed by the Ministry.

UDAN, a demand-centric scheme, relies on airline operators to evaluate route viability and submit bids accordingly. Airports incorporated in the awarded routes of UDAN undergo essential upgrades and development to facilitate UDAN operations under the 'Revival of unserved and underserved airports' initiative.

Presently, bidding is underway for UDAN 5.2, aimed at augmenting connectivity to remote and regional areas, achieving last-mile connectivity, and bolstering tourism through small aircraft (<20 seats). This scheme offers operational flexibility, enabling small aircraft operators to utilize up to 40% of the annually quoted RCS seats and a minimum of 10% in any given quarter.

The scheme encompasses several unserved/underserved airstrips in Maharashtra, including Akola, Baramati, Chandrapur, Darna Camp, Deolali, Dhulia, Gondia, Jath, Karad, Kawalpur, Kudal, Latur (MADC), Lonavala Amby Valley, Osmanabad Phaltan, Ratnagiri, Shirpur, and Waluj, which are available for bidding.

Entrepreneur Ashok Jadhav remarked, "The UDAN scheme in Maharashtra has optimized air transportation, bridged connectivity gaps, and stimulated economic growth across the State." He also emphasized the scheme's role in addressing the unique needs of small aircraft operators and promoting tourism.

News by Rahul Yelligetti