Executive Summary:
As of August 21, 2025, the Ministry of Civil Aviation responded to Lok Sabha Starred Question No. 418 regarding the operationalization of airports and routes in Gujarat under the UDAN scheme. The response details the airports and water aerodromes that have been operationalized, along with the routes connecting them. The UDAN scheme is ongoing, with periodic bidding rounds to expand connectivity.
Key Points / Main Content:
Operationalized Airports/Aerodromes:
* Eight airports/water aerodromes have been operationalized in Gujarat under the RCS-UDAN scheme: Bhavnagar, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Mundra, Kandla, Keshod, Sabarmati River Front Water Aerodrome, and Statue of Unity Water Aerodrome.
Operationalized Routes:
* Sixty-nine RCS routes connecting the aforementioned aerodromes have been operationalized.
* Annexure provides details of operationalized routes, including departure and arrival points, operators, and start dates, categorized by bidding round.
RCS-UDAN Scheme:
* The Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS-UDAN) is an ongoing, market-based scheme.
* Bidding rounds are conducted periodically to expand connectivity to unserved and underserved airstrips.
* Airlines submit proposals based on demand assessment during bidding rounds.
* Valid bids are awarded for route operationalization after airport readiness.
Impact Analysis:
Airlines:
* Impact: Airlines are required to submit proposals during bidding rounds based on demand assessment for specific routes. They are also responsible for operating the routes once awarded.
* Action Required: Airlines need to assess demand, submit competitive bids, and ensure operational readiness upon route allocation.
Airport Authorities:
* Impact: Airport authorities are responsible for ensuring the readiness of airports and aerodromes for the operationalization of RCS routes.
* Action Required: Ensure airport infrastructure and facilities are adequate for handling RCS flights and coordinate with airlines for smooth operations.
Passengers:
* Impact: Passengers benefit from increased connectivity and potentially more affordable air travel options under the UDAN scheme.
* Action Required: Passengers can utilize the newly operationalized routes for travel and provide feedback on the services.
Ministry of Civil Aviation:
* Impact: Oversees the implementation and expansion of the RCS-UDAN scheme to improve regional air connectivity.
* Action Required: Conduct periodic bidding rounds, evaluate proposals, and award routes to expand connectivity to underserved areas.
Key Entities Referenced
UDAN scheme: Regional Connectivity Scheme Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (RCS-UDAN), a Government of India initiative to enhance air connectivity to underserved and unserved airports.
Gujarat: State in India where the UDAN scheme airports and routes are being operationalized.
Ministry of Civil Aviation: The Indian government ministry responsible for the formulation and administration of rules, regulations and policies relating to civil aviation.
Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu: Minister of Civil Aviation.
Bhavnagar, Gujarat: Airport in Gujarat operationalized under the UDAN scheme.
Porbandar, Gujarat: Airport in Gujarat operationalized under the UDAN scheme.
Jamnagar, Gujarat: Airport in Gujarat operationalized under the UDAN scheme.
SpiceJet: Airline operating routes under the UDAN scheme in Gujarat.