Only 651 of 923 UDAN routes operational, 123 shut before term: Govt

Of the 923 UDAN scheme routes awarded till date, only 651 have been operationalised, and 123 did not complete their three-year term, the government has told the Parliament.

The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has cited disruption caused by COVID-19 pandemic, aircraft shortage, supply chain issues, aircraft maintenance, airport/runway maintenance and low passenger demand on some routes, among other key reasons for discontinuation of routes before the term.

“As on date, fourteen Airports are non-operational under the UDAN Scheme due to factors such as completion of the three-year concession period, poor visibility conditions, daytime runway restrictions at VFR-only airports, shortage of aircraft, leasing issues, temporary discontinuation by airlines, novation of routes, and low passenger