Understanding the UDAN Scheme
The initiative at the heart of this expansion is UDAN, which stands for 'Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik' (Let the Common Citizen of the Country Fly). Launched by the central government, its primary goal is to make air travel affordable and to connect underserved
and unserved airports across the country. By providing financial support to airlines to operate on commercially unviable routes, the scheme aims to bring smaller towns into the national aviation network, fostering economic growth, tourism, and easier travel for millions.
Four New Airports on the Anvil
Following an agreement signed in early October 2026 between the Union Civil Aviation Ministry and the West Bengal government, four new locations are slated for airport development. These are Charra in Purulia, Balurghat in Dakshin Dinajpur, Hasimara in Alipurduar, and Kalaikunda in Paschim Medinipur. This move is part of a major push to enhance the state's aviation infrastructure, with a planned investment of ₹29,000 crore in West Bengal under the UDAN scheme over the next ten years. The goal is to make these airports operational within the next two years, effectively doubling the number of active airports in the state.
From Airstrips to Airports
The plan involves a mix of reviving old airstrips and converting military airbases for civilian use. The airstrip at Charra in Purulia, for instance, was built during World War Two and will now be developed into a full-fledged airport. In Balurghat, the existing airport will be revived and expanded. Meanwhile, the Air Force bases at Kalaikunda and Hasimara will be developed into civil enclaves, similar to Bagdogra, allowing them to handle commercial flights. With runways that are already 2,700 metres long, these two locations can support narrow-bodied aircraft like the Airbus A320 and Boeing B737, which are commonly used by domestic airlines.
The Promise of Regional Connectivity
The impact of this expansion extends far beyond just adding new flight routes. For residents of Purulia, Paschim Medinipur, and the North Bengal districts of Dakshin Dinajpur and Alipurduar, it means significantly reduced travel times. Access to healthcare, education, and business opportunities in Kolkata and other major cities will become faster and more convenient. The development at Hasimara is particularly crucial for the Dooars region, a major tourist destination, potentially providing a massive boost to the local tourism economy by offering easier access for travellers. Similarly, improved connectivity is expected to benefit trade, agriculture, and local commerce across these regions.
Challenges and the Path Forward
While the plan is ambitious, history shows that the path to successful regional connectivity has its challenges. The primary hurdle will be ensuring these new routes are commercially viable for airlines in the long run. Passenger demand will be a critical factor. In the past, flights to smaller airports like Cooch Behar have been inconsistent. However, with a formal agreement and significant central government funding now in place, the outlook is more optimistic. The success of this initiative will depend on coordinated execution between the state government, which will provide the land, and the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which will manage airport development and operations.
