A total of 657 routes have been operationalised under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS-UDAN) as on 20 January 2026, connecting 93 unserved and underserved airports, the government has informed the Parliament.
The information was provided by Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, outlining the progress of the regional air connectivity programme.
The operational network includes 15 heliports and 2 water aerodromes, with over 160 lakh domestic passengers having travelled on more than 3.36 lakh flights under the scheme so far.
“As on 20.01.2026, a total of 657 routes have been operationalised, connecting 93 unserved and underserved airports, including 15 heliports and 2 water aerodromes carrying over 160 lakhs domestic passengers on more than 3.36 lakh RCS flights under the Regional Connectivity Scheme – Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (RCS-UDAN),” the minister stated.
To improve long-term sustainability of connectivity under the scheme, the government has adopted an approach that involves leveraging the expertise of state governments to identify and prioritise high-potential aerodromes for development and operationalisation, according to the minister.
Further, airlines have been asked to submit business plans for timely launch of services prior to the award of routes, while the implementing agency is publishing lists of aerodromes that are ready or likely to be ready.
Routes that were discontinued in earlier rounds due to various reasons are being re-bid, awarded, and operationalised in subsequent rounds.
The minister also stated that UDAN 5.4, launched in August 2024, aims to revive previously cancelled routes identified as eligible for re-bidding, including those that could not commence operations or complete their tenure, with the objective of supporting inclusive and sustainable air travel as part of the country’s development journey.
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