So, What Is This Regional Airport Push?
At the heart of this transformation is a government initiative called UDAN, which stands for Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik or 'Let the Common Citizen Fly'. Launched in 2016, its goal is simple: connect India’s smaller, underserved towns and cities by reviving
old airstrips and building new airports. By making these routes financially viable for airlines through subsidies, the scheme aims to make air travel accessible to millions. The number of operational airports in India has more than doubled, jumping from 74 in 2014 to over 165 by mid-2026. In March 2026, the government approved a 'Modified UDAN' scheme, committing nearly ₹29,000 crore to develop 100 new airports and further expand this network over the next decade.
New Destinations on Your Radar
Forget long, gruelling train journeys or expensive, multi-leg flights. The biggest win for young travellers is the direct access to destinations that were once difficult to reach. The UDAN scheme has put dozens of new places on the flight map, opening up a world of exploration. Think of flying directly to Shillong for its music festivals, Jharsuguda in Odisha to explore its rich heritage, or Hubli and Belagavi in Karnataka for a quick escape. The focus is on connecting these Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, creating a 'hub-and-spoke' model. This means you can often get to remote places with just one convenient layover. The expanded scheme is also targeting connectivity to hilly regions, islands, and the North-East, promising even more exciting travel possibilities.
The All-Important Cost Factor
Let’s talk about the best part: affordability. To make flying a reality for everyone, the UDAN scheme has a unique pricing rule. On every designated UDAN flight, at least 50% of the seats are sold at a capped, subsidised price. When the scheme began, the indicative cap was around ₹2,500 for a one-hour flight, though this is adjusted periodically. This means if you book in advance, you can snag some incredibly cheap fares. Airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, Alliance Air, and Star Air operate these routes. The remaining seats are sold at regular market prices, which is why last-minute bookings can still be expensive. The trick is to plan ahead to take full advantage of the low-cost seats.
How to Plan Your Regional Trip
Booking these flights is as simple as booking any other. You can find them on the airlines' own websites and major online travel portals. However, since these airports are smaller, you should set your expectations accordingly. Don’t expect the sprawling terminals, extensive food courts, or premium lounges of a metro airport. Services are more basic, focusing on functional efficiency to get you on your way. Also, be aware that smaller airlines operating on these routes might have fewer aircraft, so disruptions can sometimes lead to delays or cancellations. It's always a good idea to have some flexibility in your travel plans.
What to Keep in Mind
While the UDAN scheme has been revolutionary, it's not without its challenges. Some routes have been discontinued because of low passenger demand, making them financially unviable for airlines even with subsidies. Weather conditions, especially in mountainous areas, and the lack of advanced landing systems at some smaller airports can also lead to flight cancellations. The government is actively working to address these gaps in the new, modified version of the scheme, but it’s a reality for travellers to be aware of. Despite these hurdles, the overall direction is positive, with a clear focus on strengthening and expanding the network for the long term.
