udan scheme

Bihar is on the brink of a transformative upgrade in its aviation sector as agreements are finalized to enhance the runways at both Patna and Gaya airports. Meanwhile, Darbhanga is set to emerge as a key international gateway with land acquisition successfully completed.

Vijayawada–Srisailam Route First for Seaplanes

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has urged the Union government to expedite Patna airport's runway expansion, pledging state support. Aiming to boost air connectivity tenfold in five years, the government is developing a district-wise roadmap for airport modernization, enhanced security, and inclusive infrastructure.

India is set to relaunch seaplane services with SkyHop Aviation receiving its operator's license. The company will initially connect five Lakshadweep islands and the mainland using a 19-seater aircraft. This initiative, supported by government incentives and a modified De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, aims to improve regional connectivity and tourism.

Noida International Airport has received final clearance for its commercial launch, with the first domestic flights expected in early June. This development coincides with Delhi's IGI Airport enhancing its hub-and-spoke operations, boosting aerial connectivity in the NCR region. The aviation ministry is implementing measures to support airlines during challenging times.

Bokaro Deputy Commissioner Ajay Nath Jha urged the Airports Authority of India to expedite the Bokaro airport project following a 48-hour inspection. The AAI team reviewed infrastructure and safety systems, with most Bureau of Civil Aviation Security requirements met. Clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation is now awaited for the airport, included in the udan scheme since 2016.

The government has received bids for 111 routes from 15 airlines under the third round of auction for the udan scheme. SpiceJet and IndiGo have bid for 37 routes and 20 routes in the third round of auctions. Ghodawat Enterprises Pvt Ltd has bid for a total of 15 routes in this round.

Karnataka government is considering a single airport for Ballari, Vijayanagara, and Koppal districts due to mixed results of the Centre's udan scheme. Infrastructure Minister MB Patil highlighted struggles of regional airports post-Udan support, aiming to avoid a 'white elephant' project. The state is examining a viable model for the Kalyana Karnataka region, with land already acquired for a Ballari airport.

The draft International Air Connectivity (IAC) scheme envisages to increase the international ticketing to 20 crore by 2027. "The scheme is to be made operational only for states, which demonstrate their commitment to implement and provide the requisite support for promoting operations under the scheme," the draft reads. Stakeholders inputs and comment have been sought till September 4.

Union civil aviation minister VK Singh on Monday informed that the Nagarjuna Sagar water aerodrome has been identified under the udan scheme and a provision of Rs 20 crores has been made under "revival of unserved-underserved airports" scheme for the development of water aerodrome and seaplane operations.

Though no city from Bihar figured on the first list of airports covered under udan scheme of government of India on Thursday, senior officials in state civil aviation directorate claimed that Patna, Bihta, Gaya, Purnia and Darbhanga airfields would be connected under the regional air connectivity scheme in the near future.