A major step has been taken by the Union Civil Aviation Ministry to make air travel accessible to the citizens living in small towns in 21-October-2016. The much-awaited regional contact scheme “Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik” was inaugurated by the Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri P Ashok Gajapati Raju in New Delhi. UDAN is an innovative scheme to develop regional aviation market.
This scheme is based on market mechanism, under which air service providers will be bidding for seats. This scheme is the first scheme of this type so far that is viable and profitable economically for common citizens of the country. This will enable cheap flights on regional routes globally. On this occasion, Shri Raju hoped that the first flight under the scheme will be operational by January next year. He said that this scheme has been prepared only after consultation with the stakeholders and the government has got the support of all the bidders to make this scheme a success.
Benefits of Flight Scheme:
1. Through this scheme citizens will get connectivity of air travel.
2. It will provide a position of competition for all stakeholders
3. Provide employment opportunities
4. Center will be able to expand regional air connectivity and market.
5. The State Government will get the benefit of the development of remote areas, expansion of trade and commerce and the growth of tourism.
The selected airline operators will have to pay minimum 9 and maximum 40 flight seats in general vessels at concessional rates and provision of minimum 5 and maximum 13 seats in helicopters. In general vessels and helicopters, for a nearly one hour and half hour journey respectively, the maximum fare for reserved seats is Rs. 2,500. has been fixed.
