Maharashtra Air Connectivity Set for Major Boost as UDAN Expands
The Union government’s recent push for the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme has raised expectations for a significant improvement in Maharashtra’s regional air connectivity. Despite being an early adopter of the scheme, Maharashtra has lagged behind in its implementation, with limited operational flights under UDAN. However, with the announcement of 120 new destinations under the regional connectivity scheme (RCS) in the Union Budget, authorities anticipate a surge in flight movements across the state. Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, highlighted the potential positive impact of this expansion, stating that the state could witness improved intra-state and inter-state air connectivity, leading to better accessibility for underserved regions.
The Maharashtra Airport Development Company Limited (MADC), which oversees the UDAN initiative in the state, has confirmed that only seven airports currently operate flights under the scheme. Among them, Amravati has been allocated a route but remains non-operational due to pending regulatory approvals. MADC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, Swati Pandey, noted that efforts are underway to secure the required Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) license to commence operations. Currently, Maharashtra sees 24 UDAN flight movements, far below the expected numbers. To address this, a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assessed the status of state airports and explored measures to enhance connectivity. In a significant move, the state government has approved viable gap funding (VGF) for the Mumbai-Solapur route, with Fly91 expected to operate flights soon, setting a precedent for similar funding on other routes.
While UDAN has successfully connected cities like Nanded, Jalgaon, Sindhudurg, and Kolhapur to larger hubs such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune, its progress has been slow. One of the key challenges has been infrastructure constraints and limited airline participation. In contrast, other states, including Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, have made considerable strides in UDAN implementation, expanding their regional airport networks more effectively. Maharashtra’s slow adoption has left many potential air travel routes untapped, impacting economic growth and connectivity in smaller cities. The infusion of funds and policy support is expected to bridge this gap and allow the state to regain lost momentum.
From a sustainability perspective, expanding UDAN aligns with the broader goal of reducing travel time and optimising fuel efficiency through direct flight routes, which would otherwise require longer road or rail journeys. By increasing regional air connectivity, smaller cities can experience economic revitalisation with enhanced tourism, trade, and business opportunities. Moreover, the use of smaller aircraft on short-haul routes minimises fuel consumption compared to traditional long-distance travel. The planned infrastructure upgrades and the addition of new routes must also integrate environmentally responsible solutions to ensure long-term sustainability in Maharashtra’s aviation sector.
As Maharashtra braces for a renewed push under UDAN, the coming months will determine whether the scheme finally takes flight in the state as expected. With enhanced government support and a focus on infrastructure development, regional air connectivity is poised to strengthen, fostering economic growth and mobility across Maharashtra’s tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
