The Ministry of Civil Aviation has launched UDAN 5.1, an extension of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN), to enhance connectivity to remote areas of India through helicopters. This round of the scheme is specifically designed for helicopter routes, marking the first time such a focus has been implemented under RCS-UDAN.
The key features of UDAN 5.1 include:
- Expanded operations: Operators will now be allowed to operate routes where either the origin or destination location is in a priority area. Previously, both points had to be in priority areas.
- Reduced airfare caps: Airfare caps for helicopter flights have been reduced by up to 25% to make flying in helicopters more affordable for passengers.
- Increased Viability Gap Funding (VGF) caps: VGF caps for operators of both single and twin-engine helicopters have been substantially increased. This enhancement aims to improve the financial viability of operating the awarded routes.
Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, emphasized that UDAN 5.1 reflects two emerging trends in Indian civil aviation: the democratization of air travel with a focus on last-mile connectivity and the growing demand for helicopters in the tourism sector. By increasing helicopter penetration through this scheme, the government aims to boost tourism, hospitality, and local economies in remote and underserved regions.
The current version of the scheme was developed after consultations with stakeholders, including helicopter operators. While the primary goal is to provide last-mile connectivity, it is also expected to provide a much-needed boost to the helicopter segment of the Indian civil aviation industry.
Previous rounds of the UDAN scheme have already operationalized 46 helicopter routes, benefiting hilly regions and states in the North East. The latest round aims to cover an even larger number of routes.
UDAN has brought air connectivity to passengers, provided concessions to airlines operating regional routes, and contributed to the economic development of unserved regions. The current version of the scheme is aligned with the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister to make air travel affordable for the common man, particularly to remote destinations in the country.