The Central government is strengthening oversight of airport infrastructure projects by introducing digital, real-time monitoring systems to track execution and ensure timely completion, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said on Thursday, 23 April.
Chairing a review meeting on ongoing airport projects, the minister stated that each project is now being closely tracked through technology-enabled systems, signalling a sharper focus on execution discipline in the aviation sector.
“To ensure timely completion, every project is being closely monitored through digital, real-time tracking systems,” Naidu said in a post on X.
The minister also placed emphasis on airport development in remote and challenging geographies, describing such projects as critical for strengthening regional connectivity and unlocking local economic potential.
“Airports development projects across remote and challenging topographies are critical infrastructures for strengthening regional connectivity and driving regional economic opportunities,” Naidu said.
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Naidu added that Indian airports are evolving as “benchmarks of engineering excellence” by integrating technology and sustainability, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This comes as India continues to expand its aviation infrastructure footprint beyond major metros, with connectivity to tier-2 and tier-3 regions forming a key part of the government’s strategy.
The push builds on the performance of the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme, under which 663 routes have been operationalised across 95 airports, heliports and water aerodromes since its launch in October 2016.
More than 3.44 lakh flights have been operated, carrying over 163 lakh passengers, while improving connectivity in remote, hilly and island regions and supporting regional airline growth.
The Union Cabinet recently approved a modified version of the UDAN scheme, marking the next phase of regional aviation expansion.
The programme will run from FY 2026-27 to FY 2035-36 with a total outlay of ₹28,840 crore, aimed at deepening access to affordable air travel and strengthening regional connectivity infrastructure.
Under the revised framework, the government targets the development of 100 airports from existing unserved airstrips, alongside operational support for around 441 aerodromes to improve sustainability.
The plan also includes the development of 200 modern helipads in remote and difficult terrains to enhance last-mile connectivity.
The scheme further provides for ₹10,043 crore in viability gap funding for airline operators over a 10-year period, indicating a shift towards building a more sustainable and scalable regional aviation ecosystem.
