Cabinet Approves UDAN 2.0 with ₹28,840 Crore for Regional Aviation
The Union Cabinet has approved the Modified UDAN scheme (UDAN 2.0) with a total outlay of ₹28,840 crore to enhance regional air connectivity, develop new airports, and support airline operations over the next ten years. The plan aims to strengthen aviation infrastructure in Tier-2, Tier-3, and remote regions while making air travel more affordable for passengers.
A key feature of UDAN 2.0 is the development of 100 new airports from existing unserved airstrips, with an investment of about ₹12,159 crore over eight years. The scheme will also fund operation and maintenance support for around 441 aerodromes, heliports, and water aerodromes, alongside developing 200 modern helipads in difficult-terrain and aspirational districts at an estimated cost of ₹3,661 crore.
The program continues Viability Gap Funding for airlines, allocating ₹10,043 crore over ten years to support regional routes. UDAN 2.0 also promotes indigenous aviation with HAL Dhruv helicopters for Pawan Hans and Dornier aircraft for Alliance Air, aiming to boost tourism, trade, and economic growth while expanding connectivity in underserved regions.
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