Solapur-Mumbai, Amravati-Pune flights selected under modified UDAN scheme

The Centre's modified UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme has selected two regional air routes connecting Solapur with Mumbai and Amravati with Pune, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol announced on Thursday. The selection encompasses flights in both directions on the two routes, aiming to enhance direct air connectivity between the cities and major economic, industrial, and educational hubs in Maharashtra.

Under the modified scheme, routes are chosen through a competition-based process, with Maharashtra proposing routes Solapur-Mumbai-Solapur and Amravati-Pune-Amravati. The initiative is part of the Centre's broader strategy to expand air connectivity beyond major urban centers and improve access for regional cities. Mohol emphasized that air travel should not be limited to large metropolitan areas but should be accessible to people across the country, fostering opportunities in education, employment, trade, and development.

However, aviation analyst Dhairyashil Vandekar welcomed the selection but urged for a more comprehensive approach to ensure sustainable regional air connectivity. He advocated for a phased evaluation of Maharashtra's existing airfields, such as Akola, Dhule, Chandrapur, Karad, and Baramati, to determine their potential for regular passenger and cargo operations.

Vandekar also highlighted the need for a Regional Connectivity Support Scheme to sustain routes post-viability gap funding, citing a CAG audit report that revealed 58 routes discontinued post-concession periods, including 16 with passenger load factors above 70 percent. He suggested fresh feasibility assessments to revive routes like Pune-Nashik and Pune-Belagavi, which previously operated under UDAN, particularly as Nashik prepares to host the 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela, necessitating enhanced regional air connectivity, increased flight capacity, and improved transport links.