On 4 July 2026 the Government launched the next phase of the regional air connectivity scheme ‘Viksit UDAN’ and inaugurated the new terminal at Jodhpur Airport.
Key features of Modified Viksit UDAN
- Approval & outlay: Modified UDAN approved on 25 March 2026; total outlay ~₹28,840 crore (reported as ₹29,000 crore) for FY2026‑27 to FY2035‑36, fully central-funded.
- Aerodrome development: ₹12,159 crore allocated to develop about 100 aerodromes from existing unserved airstrips.
- Helipad network: Provision for 200 modern helipads with ₹3,661 crore investment.
- Viability Gap Funding (VGF): ₹10,043 crore earmarked; subsidy period extended from three to five years.
- Indigenous platforms: Policy support for HAL Dhruv and Dornier-type aircraft/helicopters for regional and remote operations.
Operational record
- Routes & reach: Since October 2016 UDAN operationalised 669 routes connecting 95 airports, heliports and water aerodromes.
- Passengers: Over 1.66 crore passengers have been served under the scheme to date.
Jodhpur terminal — technical specifications
- Developer & cost: Built by Airports Authority of India at ₹480 crore.
- Area & capacity: 23,000–23,342 sqm; peak-hour handling 1,500 passengers; annual capacity 20 lakh.
- Facilities: 20 check‑in counters, six aerobridges, enhanced security screening; apron to accommodate 11 Airbus A321 and one ATR‑72.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Implementing agencies: Ministry of Civil Aviation, Airports Authority of India, state governments and selected carriers administer routes and VGF.
- Funding horizon: Central funding commitment spans FY2026‑27 to FY2035‑36.
- Objective (scheme design): Enhance regional connectivity via airport/helipad development and route subsidy mechanisms.