Source: PIB
Context: To increase connection across the nation's rural and regional areas, the Ministry of Civil Aviation in India has begun the 5th round of the Regional connection Scheme (RCS) - Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN).
About UDAN Scheme
In order to make regional air travel accessible to the general public, including in small towns, it was introduced as the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation in 2016.
- By revitalising existing airstrips and airports, it plans to connect the nation's underserved and underserved airports.
Comparison:
UDAN 1.0: During this Phase, 5 airlines were awarded 128 flight routes to 70 airports, including 36 brand-new airports that were rendered operational.
UDAN 2.0: In 2018, the Ministry of Civil Aviation identified 73 airports that were underserved and unserved. Phase 2 of the UDAN plan also saw the first connections between helipads.
UDAN 3.0: Travel Through collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, routes are included in UDAN 3. To link water aerodromes, seaplanes will be used. adding a number of routes to the UDAN network in the Northeast.
UDAN 4.0: In 2020, 78 new routes were approved as part of the Regional connection Scheme's (RCS) fourth phase, Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN), to boost connection to the nation's rural and remote locations.
UDAN 4.1: The primary focus of UDAN 4.1 is on linking smaller airports as well as specific links for helicopters and seaplanes. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways is leading a significant project called Sagarmala Seaplane Services in coordination with potential airline operators.
Features of UDAN 5.0:
- There wouldn't be any pre-planned routes available. Airlines may only offer Network and Individual Routes for consideration.
- A single airline will not be given the same route more than once, whether it is in the same network or another network.
- After entering the route award, airlines would have four months to start operating. preliminarily, this deadline was six months.
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| Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - UDAN Scheme |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - UDAN Scheme
1. What is the UDAN Scheme?
The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) Scheme is a regional connectivity scheme launched by the Government of India. It aims to make air travel affordable and accessible to citizens by connecting underserved and unserved airports across the country.
2. When was the UDAN Scheme launched?
The UDAN Scheme was launched on April 27, 2017, by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi.
3. What is the primary objective of the UDAN Scheme?
The main objective of the UDAN Scheme is to enhance regional connectivity and make air travel affordable for common citizens, promoting economic development in underserved and unserved areas.
4. How does the UDAN Scheme operate to achieve regional connectivity?
Under the UDAN Scheme, airlines are encouraged to operate flights to underserved and unserved airports. The scheme provides financial incentives to participating airlines and aims to develop airports and airstrips in these regions.
5. What are the key features of the UDAN Scheme?
The UDAN Scheme focuses on affordability, connectivity, and growth. It includes a cap on airfares for a certain number of seats on UDAN flights, as well as Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to make operations financially viable for airlines.
6. How does the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) work under the UDAN Scheme?
Viability Gap Funding is provided to participating airlines to bridge the gap between the cost of operations and the revenue earned on UDAN flights. This encourages airlines to operate in economically unviable routes.
7. Who can benefit from the UDAN Scheme?
The UDAN Scheme is designed to benefit common citizens, especially those residing in remote and economically underserved areas, by providing them with affordable and convenient air travel options.
8. How are the routes and airports selected under the UDAN Scheme?
Routes and airports are selected based on a bidding process. Airlines bid for the rights to operate on specific routes, and the government awards these routes to the airlines that offer the lowest Viability Gap Funding.
9. Are there any restrictions on airfares under the UDAN Scheme?
Yes, the UDAN Scheme includes a cap on airfares for a certain percentage of seats on UDAN flights to ensure affordability for passengers.
10. How has the UDAN Scheme impacted regional air connectivity in India?
The UDAN Scheme has significantly improved regional air connectivity, connecting previously underserved and unserved airports. It has contributed to economic development in these regions by facilitating easier and faster travel.
11. How can airlines participate in the UDAN Scheme?
Airlines can participate in the UDAN Scheme by bidding for routes during the bidding process conducted by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The selection is based on factors like the amount of Viability Gap Funding requested by the airline.
12. What is the vision for the future of the UDAN Scheme?
The UDAN Scheme envisions further expansion of regional air connectivity, reaching more remote areas, and enhancing economic development across the country. The government aims to make flying a reality for every common citizen through this initiative.
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