The UDAN Effect on Coastal Travel
The government's UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme has been a game-changer for domestic travel, making flying more affordable and connecting dozens of previously underserved or unserved airports. For travellers, this means that the long, arduous road
or rail journeys once required to reach secluded coastal spots are being replaced by short, convenient flights. Airlines like IndiGo, Alliance Air, and new regional players are expanding their networks with smaller, more efficient aircraft like the ATR 72, which are perfectly suited to serve these emerging destinations. This expansion is not just about adding dots to the flight map; it's about opening up entire regions to tourism, boosting local economies, and giving Indians a chance to explore the hidden beauty of their own coastline.
Lakshadweep: India's Coral Paradise, Now Closer
The turquoise lagoons and coral reefs of Lakshadweep have long been the stuff of travel dreams, but getting there was a significant challenge. That hurdle has been lowered with new direct flight options. Regional airline Fly91, in partnership with MakeMyTrip, has launched direct flights between Bengaluru and Agatti, the main airport in Lakshadweep, starting November 2026. These flights, operating during the peak season, drastically cut down travel time and make the islands more accessible, not just for people from Bengaluru but for anyone connecting through the major hub. Fly91 has also been strengthening its network with services from Goa and Kochi to Agatti, signalling a growing focus on connecting this pristine archipelago to the mainland. Now, the sun-kissed beaches and vibrant underwater world of Agatti are just a flight away, transforming a once-complex journey into a viable weekend escape.
Puducherry: The French Riviera of the East
Puducherry's unique blend of French colonial heritage, Tamil culture, and spiritual ashrams has always made it a fascinating destination. While well-connected by road from Chennai, direct air access from other major cities was often limited. Recently, IndiGo enhanced connectivity by adding Puducherry to its network with daily flights from Bengaluru and Hyderabad. This development makes it significantly easier for travellers from these bustling tech hubs to plan a quick trip. They can now swap their city life for the serene, bougainvillaea-lined streets of the French Quarter, seaside promenades, and chic cafes in a matter of hours. The improved air-link supports the growing interest in Puducherry as a destination for both leisure and spiritual tourism.
Diu: History and Serenity on the Gujarat Coast
The charming, laid-back island of Diu, with its Portuguese forts, historic churches, and quiet beaches, offers a unique coastal experience. Its accessibility has been boosted by new regional routes. IndiGo introduced direct ATR operations from the new Navi Mumbai International Airport to Diu, starting in March 2026. This creates a direct link from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, allowing for easy weekend trips. Previously, reaching Diu from Mumbai often involved a long drive or a connecting flight. This new, direct service places Diu firmly on the map for travellers seeking a tranquil coastal getaway with a rich historical backdrop, distinct from the more crowded beach destinations.
Kannur: Gateway to Malabar's Unspoiled Coast
While not a new airport, Kannur International Airport's growing network is making the pristine and largely untouched coast of North Kerala more accessible. IndiGo's recent major expansion from Navi Mumbai International Airport includes new routes to Kannur. This opens up the Malabar Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, ancient Theyyam rituals, and lush landscapes, to a much wider audience. Travellers can now fly directly into the heart of this culturally rich region, bypassing longer journeys from other Keralan airports. This enhanced connectivity allows for a deeper exploration of Malabar’s hidden gems, from the cliffside Varkala Beach to the tranquil backwaters, offering an alternative to the more frequented tourist circuits of South Kerala.
