Parliament Question: Strengthening of Air Connectivity in Akola

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. : 3095 ( TO BE ANSWERED ON THE 6th August 2026 ) STRENGTHENING OF AIR CONNECTIVITY IN AKOLA 3095. SHRI ANUP SANJAY DHOTRE Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION be pleased to state:- (a) whether Akola Airport has been considered for operationalisation or expansion under the Modified UDAN Scheme and if so, the details and the present status thereof along with the details of the assistance provided therefor; and (b) the measures taken/proposed to be taken to strengthen operational viability, enhance passenger traffic and improve regional air connectivity under the said scheme, particularly in Maharashtra including Akola? ANSWER Minister of State in the Ministry of CIVIL AVIATION (Shri Murlidhar Mohol) (a) & (b): The Government has launched the next phase of the UDAN Scheme on 04.07.2026 for a period of ten years, from FY 2026-27 to FY 2035-36, with a total outlay of Rs. 28,840 crore. This includes budgetary support of Rs. 12,159 crore from the Government of India for the development of 100 airports. The Scheme provides a Challenge Mode framework under which State Governments may nominate aerodromes and helipads for development. Proposals are evaluated based on availability of encumbrance-free land, infrastructure readiness, technical and operational feasibility, traffic potential, statutory clearances and support of the State Governments. To enhance operational viability and passenger traffic, the Scheme incorporates longer VGF mechanism extending up to five years, progressively tapered to enable airlines to transition towards commercially sustainable operations. The Scheme also supports the development and upgradation of airport infrastructure and encourages State Governments to provide facilitative measures. These measures are applicable across the country, including Maharashtra. ******