Question : Status of UDAN Scheme

(a) the current status of implementation of Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme in the country;

(b) the details of new regional air routes started under the scheme and the number of airlines that have commenced new services under the scheme;

(c) whether the Government proposes to include helicopter services under the scheme to boost air services in the country and if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether all the carriers who were awarded contracts/licenses in the first phase of the scheme have operationalized the required number of flights on designated flight routes under the scheme and if so, the details thereof;

(e) the number of airports being developed under the scheme for air operations, State/UT-wise; and

(f) the current status of Adampur airport in Punjab and number of flights operational from the airport?

The Minister of State in the Ministry of CIVIL AVIATION
(Shri Jayant Sinha)

(a): Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Implementing Agency has issued Letter of Award for 27 proposals of five Selected Airline Operators to operate from 43 RCS (12 under-served & 31 unserved) airports in first round of bidding under Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN. Second round of bidding under RCS-UDAN has been commenced from 24.08.2017. The finalization of selection of bidders is underway.;

(b): The details of new regional routes started is attached at Annexure-I.;

(c): There is provision for Helicopter services in the RCS-UDAN.

(d): The details of RCS flights commenced, awarded during the first round of bidding are attached at Annexure-I. Rest of routes awarded in first round of bidding are yet to be operationalised by the selected airline operators.;

(e): The Government has approved the proposal for revival of 50 unserved/ under-served airports/airstrips of the State Governments, Airports Authority of India and Civil enclaves at an estimate cost of Rs. 4500 crores. However, the revival of airstrips / airports is ''demand driven'', depending upon firm commitment from airline operators as well as from the State Government for providing various concessions.

(f): Adampur airport is ready for commencement of RCS flight, however, RCS flight from Adampur has not started yet.