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Business News : The Government of India is planning to extend the Regional Air Connectivity Scheme (UDAN) for an additional ten years. Civil Aviation Minister K. Ramamohan Naidu informed about this on Thursday. The aim of extending the UDAN scheme is to enhance air connectivity across the country and it includes plans to provide viability gap funding for seaplane operations. The Union Minister discussed the government's commitment to promote domestic aircraft manufacturing, including aircraft, helicopters and seaplanes.
Demo flights to begin from Vijayawada in October
Simplified norms have been introduced for seaplane operations and demo flights are scheduled to begin in October from Vijayawada, Financial Express reported. Several states such as Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra have shown interest in participating in these operations. Impact of UDAN scheme The UDAN scheme, launched in 2017, has significantly improved regional connectivity, operationalising 579 routes connecting 85 airports, including 13 heliports and 2 water aerodromes. However, some routes have been discontinued due to various factors such as low passenger load factor, airline shutdowns and visibility issues at VFR (visual flight rules) airports.
Seaplane will provide help
Seaplane operations, now under the ambit of the UDAN scheme, are expected to boost tourism and support critical sectors such as research, environmental monitoring, coastal resource management and coastal and island defence. The expansion of the UDAN scheme and support for seaplane operations is seen as a significant step in furthering India's regional air connectivity and infrastructure development. The government's proactive measures and commitment to improving connectivity reflect the broader vision to enhance transport infrastructure and support economic growth through innovative aviation solutions.
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