A guide to the UDAN Scheme
Discover what the UDAN scheme is and how you can make the most of discounted air travel.
UDAN Scheme (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik)
Book affordable flights with Alternative Airlines
Where from?
Where to?
Dates
Passengers & Class
What is the UDAN Scheme?
‘UDAN’ is short for ‘Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik’, and refers to an extensive regional connectivity scheme in India. The UDAN scheme is aimed at providing affordable air travel on regional routes, while expanding networks and boosting connectivity. Under the scheme, the government in India is providing concessions and financial motivation for airlines to participate, with capped airfares that will be subsidised by the government.
Since the scheme was launched in 2017, over 93 unserved/ underserved airports across India are now connected by around 650 routes. And this is just the beginning. The scheme will continue expanding beyond April 2027.
Key Points
- UDAN is a scheme introduced in India by the Indian Government
- Under the UDAN scheme, airlines compete to win subsidies to operate flights that link small airports (regional) with bigger ones
- The UDAN scheme aims to increase connectivity between communities in India, while making air travel affordable for locals
UDAN scheme airlines and routes
Popular airlines in the UDAN Scheme:
Popular routes in the UDAN Scheme:
The following are just some of the most popular UDAN routes.
- Shimla - Delhi (first ever UDAN route)
- Darbhanga - Bengaluru
- Agra - Lucknow
- Mysuru - Hyderabad
- Jorhat – Kolkata
The introduction of seaplanes and water aerodromes in India
As part of the UDAN scheme, India has recently announced that it will be developing new water aerodromes. A water aerodrome (also known as a waterdrome) is a stretch of open water (a lake, or even the sea, for example) that can be used by seaplanes to land and take off.
The water aerodromes have an aim to boost tourism, as well as fostering greater short-haul local connectivity. India has an extensive coastline of approximately 7500 kms, as well as having large lakes and water bodies - ideal for water aerodromes. With a much lower cost and less time required to develop, water aerodromes and an ideal solution for increasing connectivity.
On October 26, 2020, the first seaplane service (operated by SpiceJet) commenced in India, connecting Sabarmati Riverfront and Statue of Unity arrived in Kevadia, Gujarat.
Top Tip: Wondering how seaplanes are able to take-off on water? Check out our guide to seaplanes for more information.
How to book cheap UDAN flights?
Using the search bar at the top of the page, type in your destination city - one of the airports included in the UDAN scheme.
- Using the search bar at the top of the page, enter your travel dates and departure/arrival airports.
- Search for available flights on that route, based on the dates you have entered.
- Choose the best flights for you; we hunt for the cheapest flights on all of the airlines that operate the route.
- Follow the simple instructions to book your flight. You can also book your meals, if available, and add extra baggage.
Trusted globally
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot
We’re super proud of our Trustpilot rating, but don’t just take it from us. See why millions of others love booking their flights through Alternative Airlines
UDAN Scheme FAQs
What is the UDAN Scheme?
UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) is a regional airport development scheme which was introduced in India by the Government. The scheme has the objective of 'letting the common citizen of the country fly', and uses financial motivation for airlines to encourage them to expand their networks to increase connectivity. Passengers can enjoy subsidised prices, aimed at making air travel affordable and widespread.
Looking for more information? Check out the official UDAN scheme documentation from India's Ministry of Civil Aviation.
When was the UDAN Scheme introduced?
The UDAN scheme was introduced in 2016 by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in India, under the Narendra Modi government. The UDAN scheme officially launched in 2017.
Where can I book UDAN flights?
At Alternative Airlines, you can book flights that are operated by airlines across India, thanks to the introduction of the UDAN scheme. Choose from popular airlines like SpiceJet, IndiGo Airlines, Star Air or any other domestic airline in India. You can even pay in Indian Rupee (INR), or any other currency of your choice.