The Centre has launched the next phase of its flagship UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme to enhance regional air connectivity. UDAN 5.5 aims to promote last-mile connectivity in remote regions, hilly areas, and island territories. The initiative focuses on utilising seaplanes and helicopters to connect underserved locations. The scheme is a step towards enhancing last-mile connectivity in India.
Objectives of UDAN 5.5
The primary goal of UDAN 5.5 is to encourage air travel in remote and underserved areas. The scheme aims to create routes that link 80 water bodies, including ponds and dams. It seeks to improve accessibility for residents and promote tourism in these regions. The initiative also aims to provide economic benefits by facilitating trade and commerce.
Seaplane and Helicopter Expansion
Prior to the scheme’s launch, several state governments, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, had expressed interest in enhancing air connectivity through seaplanes. Additionally, around 400 helipads are included in the scheme for operators to map out helicopter routes.
The scheme also allows the participation of operators with aircraft in categories such as:
- ‘1A’ – seating less than nine passengers
- ‘1’ – seating fewer than 20 passengers
Earlier versions of the scheme promoted the use of larger aircraft in categories:
- ‘2’ – seating 20–80 passengers
- ‘3’ – seating more than 80 passengers
Mode of Operation
UDAN 5.5 allows operators to use seaplanes and small aircraft with a capacity of fewer than 20 passengers. Additionally, it includes around 400 helipads for helicopter services. The scheme encourages participation from various operators, including those with smaller aircraft that can accommodate fewer passengers.
Bidding Process and Viability Gap Funding
Operators interested in the scheme must participate in a bidding process. The government provides viability gap funding (VGF) to selected operators. This funding supports routes that are otherwise unprofitable, ensuring that air services remain viable in less accessible areas.
Historical Context and Global Comparison
Seaplane services have previously operated in India but were discontinued due to economic challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, countries like the Maldives utilise seaplanes extensively for tourism and connectivity, boasting around 200 such aircraft. The UDAN initiative seeks to replicate this success in India.
Potential Impact and Future Prospects
UDAN 5.5 is expected to boost the number of seaplanes, helicopters, and small aircraft in India. At present, there are no operational seaplane services, and small aircraft in the A1 category number fewer than 20.
However, India has had previous seaplane services. Prime Minister Narendra Modi notably flew on a seaplane between the Sabarmati riverfront and the Statue of Unity in Gujarat during 2019-20. This service, operated by SpiceJet, was later discontinued due to commercial reasons and the impact of COVID-19.
Globally, seaplanes are widely used for connectivity in island and tourist destinations, such as the Maldives, which operates around 200 seaplanes. Leading manufacturers of seaplanes include De Havilland Canada and Cessna.
Industry estimates forecast the development of:
- Over 50 seaplane routes
- Around 20-25 aerodromes in the next five years
- Requirement of approximately 30 aircraft
UDAN’s Journey So Far
The UDAN scheme, launched in October 2016 as part of the National Civil Aviation Policy, has significantly expanded air connectivity.
Since its inception:
- 1.5 crore passengers have traveled through UDAN flights
- More than 2.8 lakh flights have been operated
- 619 routes have been operationalized, including helicopter routes
- The number of operational airports in India has grown from 74 in 2014 to over 157 in 2024
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