To improve connectivity to rural areas of India, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has introduced UDAN 5.1, an extension of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN).
What exactly is UDAN 5.1?
- This phase focuses on helicopter routes, with the goal of achieving last-mile connectivity.
- It enables operators to run routes where one of the origin or destination destinations, such as hilly regions, islands, or North East states, is in a priority area.
The scheme’s characteristics
- Operators can now run routes when one of the origin or destination sites is in a priority area, as opposed to the previous requirement that both points be in priority areas.
- Cut Airfare Caps: Helicopter flight caps have been cut by up to 25%, making helicopter travel more economical for passengers.
- Enhanced sustainability Gap Funding (VGF) Caps: To improve the financial sustainability of operating the granted routes, VGF caps for operators using single and twin-engine helicopters have been significantly enhanced.
- Expansion of Coverage: UDAN 5.1 seeks to cover a much greater number of routes than prior rounds, expanding the benefits of air connectivity to hitherto unserved areas.
The Importance of UDAN 5.1
- Democratisation of Air Travel and Last-Mile Connectivity: UDAN 5.1 reflects a deeper democratisation of air travel, with an emphasis on delivering last-mile connectivity to India’s distant regions.
- Consultations and Stakeholder Engagement: The current programme was developed following thorough consultations with all stakeholders, including helicopter operators.
Way Ahead
- Ensure proper implementation of UDAN 5.1, taking into account the extended scope of operations, lowered airfare caps, and enhanced VGF caps.
- Collaboration with Operators: Encourage collaboration and engagement with helicopter operators to optimise last-mile connectivity and encourage the expansion of the civil aviation industry’s helicopter segment.
- Evaluation and monitoring: Create a strong monitoring and evaluation system to examine the impact of UDAN 5.1 on rural regions, air travel affordability, and economic development.
- Tourism Promotion: Take advantage of growing helicopter penetration to encourage tourism in distant locations, benefiting the hotel industry and local economy.
- Future growth: Evaluate the possibilities for further growth of the UDAN scheme on a regular basis, taking into account new routes and modes of transport to increase connection to underserved parts of India.
Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1926992