100 Airports, 200 Helipads Planned Under ₹28,840 Crore Modified UDAN Scheme Approved For 10 Years
100 Airports, 200 Helipads Planned Under ₹28,840 Crore Modified UDAN Scheme Approved For 10 Years
New Delhi, March 25, 2026: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the launch of the revamped Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)–Modified UDAN, with a total financial outlay of ₹28,840 crore. The scheme will be implemented over a 10-year period from FY 2026–27 to FY 2035–36.
The upgraded UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) initiative aims to significantly expand regional air connectivity, particularly in underserved and remote areas, while making air travel more affordable and accessible.
Under the new plan, the government intends to develop 100 new airports by upgrading existing unserved airstrips. This component alone will involve an investment of ₹12,159 crore over the next eight years and is aligned with the broader vision of building a globally competitive aviation ecosystem.
To ensure sustainability, the scheme also includes financial support for the operation and maintenance of around 441 regional airports, heliports, and water aerodromes. This support, estimated at ₹2,577 crore, will help manage high recurring costs and limited revenue generation in smaller aviation hubs.
In a major push for last-mile connectivity, especially in hilly, island, and remote regions, the government plans to construct 200 modern helipads with an investment of ₹3,661 crore. These facilities are expected to improve emergency services and healthcare access in difficult terrains.
Airline operators will continue to receive Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to maintain regional routes. The government has allocated ₹10,043 crore over the next decade to support airlines and ensure long-term route sustainability.
The scheme also promotes indigenous aviation manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. As part of this effort, two HAL Dhruv helicopters will be procured for Pawan Hans, along with two HAL Dornier aircraft for Alliance Air, to strengthen operations in remote areas.
Officials said the initiative is expected to boost economic activity, tourism, and trade in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, while also improving connectivity in aspirational districts. It will further enhance emergency response capabilities and provide better access to healthcare services in remote regions.
The original UDAN scheme, launched in 2016, has already made significant progress. Over the past nine years, 663 routes have been operationalised across 95 airports and related facilities. More than 3.41 lakh flights have carried over 1.62 crore passengers, helping expand connectivity across the country.
Building on this foundation, the Modified UDAN scheme aims to further strengthen India’s regional aviation network and contribute to the long-term vision of inclusive growth and enhanced infrastructure.
