UDAN scheme to develop 100 airports from unserved airstrips, ₹12,159 crore allocated

The question asked the Ministry of Civil Aviation to provide details on the identification of airstrips, prioritization criteria, indigenous aircraft procurement, and measures for operational viability under the modified UDAN Scheme.

Asked by Shri Bibhu Prasad Tarai and Shri Janardan Mishra; Answered by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (Minister Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu).

• The next phase of UDAN was launched on 04.07.2026.
• The scheme targets 120 new destinations and 4 crore passengers over 10 years (F.Y. 2026-27 to 2035-36).
• Total outlay is Rs. 28,840 crore, including Rs. 12,159 crore for developing 100 airports from unserved airstrips.
• Rs. 3,661 crore is allocated for developing 200 heliports in Hilly, North-Eastern, and Aspirational (HINER) areas.
• A 'Challenge Mode' framework allows State Governments to nominate aerodromes, evaluated on land availability, infrastructure, feasibility, and traffic potential.
• The Union Cabinet approved the procurement of two HAL Dhruv helicopters and two HAL Dornier aircraft for regional services.
• A longer VGF (Viability Gap Funding) mechanism extends up to five years, progressively tapered to support commercial sustainability.

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