Cabinet Approves Modified UDAN to Deepen Regional Connectivity and Expand Inclusive Air Access Across India

In a major step towards strengthening regional air connectivity and widening the reach of affordable aviation, the Union Cabinet under the transformative leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi approved the launch and implementation of the Regional Connectivity Scheme – Modified UDAN.

Key Features of Modified UDAN
- Duration & Outlay: Implemented over 10 years (FY 2026–27 to FY 2035–36) with a ₹28,840 crore budgetary support.
- Aerodrome Development: 100 airports to be developed from unserved airstrips, with ₹12,159 crore allocated.
- Operation & Maintenance Support: Financial aid for 441 aerodromes, capped at ₹3.06 crore per airport annually for 3 years.
- Helipad Expansion: 200 modern helipads in hilly, remote, island, and aspirational regions, with ₹3,661 crore outlay.
- Viability Gap Funding (VGF): ₹10,043 crore over 10 years to support airlines, with tapered funding after year 3.
- Indigenous Capacity: Procurement of HAL Dhruv helicopters and HAL Dornier aircraft to strengthen regional operations and promote Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Expected Impact
- Connectivity: Extends affordable aviation to Tier-2 & Tier-3 cities, remote regions, and aspirational districts.
- Economic Growth: Boosts tourism, trade, healthcare access, and local enterprise.
- Social Inclusion: Bridges geographic gaps, integrates local economies, and enhances mobility for ordinary citizens.
- Sustainability: Challenge Mode development ensures timely completion, innovation, and quality infrastructure.

Achievements So Far
- Since 2016, UDAN has operationalised 663 routes across 95 airports, heliports, and water aerodromes, carrying 163 lakh passengers.
- This success provides a strong foundation for the next phase under Modified UDAN.

In essence, Modified UDAN is not just an aviation scheme—it’s a development initiative designed to democratize flying, strengthen regional economies, and align with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.