RCS UDAN Scheme 2026: Routes List, Airports List & Latest Updates

The RCS UDAN Scheme (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at making air travel affordable and enhancing connectivity to smaller cities and remote regions.

Launched in 2016, the scheme has transformed regional aviation by connecting underserved airports and enabling common citizens to travel by air at affordable prices.

In a major development, the Union Cabinet chaired by Narendra Modi has approved a massive ₹28,840 crore outlay for the next phase of the scheme, ensuring its continuation and expansion over the coming decade.

RCS Udan Scheme 2026 Highlights

Features	Details
Scheme Name	RCS Udan (Regional Connectivity Scheme)
Launched By	Government of India
Launch Year	2016
New Budget	₹28,840 Crore
Scheme Duration	FY 2016 - FY 2026 (Udan Scheme), FY 2027 - FY 2036 (Modified Udan)
Total Routes	663
Airports Covered	95
Flights Operated	3.41 Lakh+
Passengers Served	162.47 Lakh

* All data is updated till 25 March 2026.

Latest Update: ₹28,840 Crore Approved for Modified UDAN

The government has approved the Modified UDAN Scheme, which will run for 10 years (FY27-FY36). The funding will allow the scheme to expand its reach and strengthen regional connectivity across India.

Key Objectives of the Modified Scheme

• Expansion to 120 new regional destinations
• Development of 100 new airports
• Construction of 200 modern helipads
• Affordable air travel for the common citizen
• Boost to tourism, trade, and local economies
• Improved healthcare and emergency access in remote areas
• Support for indigenous aviation under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission

5 Key Components of Modified RCS UDAN Scheme 2026

1. Aerodrome Development (Capex)
The scheme focuses on developing 100 airports from existing unserved and underserved airstrips to enhance regional connectivity across the country.
2. Aerodrome Operation and Maintenance (O&M)
To ensure sustainability of regional airports, financial assistance will be provided:

• Up to ₹3.06 crore per airport per year
• Up to ₹0.90 crore per heliport/water aerodrome per year
• Support duration: 3 years
• Total estimated cost: ₹2,577 crore for around 441 aerodromes

3. Modern Helipad Development
To improve last-mile connectivity in difficult terrains:

• 200 modern helipads will be developed
• Cost per helipad: ₹15 crore
• Total estimated cost: ₹3,661 crore over 8 years

4. Viability Gap Funding (VGF)
Airline operators will receive financial support to operate routes that are not commercially viable.

• Total allocation: ₹10,043 crore over 10 years

This ensures affordable fares and continued connectivity to low-demand regions.
5. Atmanirbhar Bharat Aircraft Acquisition
The scheme promotes domestic aviation manufacturing by supporting the procurement of indigenous aircraft such as:

• HAL Dhruv helicopters
• Dornier aircraft

This strengthens India's aviation ecosystem under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Achievements of UDAN Scheme (2016-2026)

Over the past 9 years, the UDAN scheme has delivered impressive results:

• 663 routes operationalized
• 95 airports, heliports, and water aerodromes connected
• 3.41 lakh+ flights operated
• 162.47 lakh passengers served
• Improved connectivity in remote, hilly, and island regions

RCS UDAN Routes List 2026

The RCS UDAN routes list 2026 includes all routes operational under multiple phases such as UDAN 1.0 to UDAN 5.5.

Download the complete list of 663 operational routes here:
https://www.aai.aero/sites/default/files/rcs_news_notifications/663%20RCS%20Routes%20Operationalised%20as%20on%2025.03.2026.pdf

Key Highlights of Routes

• Connects Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities
• Focus on remote, hilly, and island regions
• Affordable airfare capped around ₹2,500 per hour flight
• Boosts tourism and regional development

RCS UDAN Airports List 2026

As of March 2026, a total of 95 airports have been operationalized under the scheme.

Download the state-wise airport list here:
https://www.aai.aero/sites/default/files/rcs_news_notifications/95-RCS%20Airports%20operationalized%20as%20on%2025.03.2026.pdf

Airport Coverage Includes

• Small and regional cities
• Border and remote areas
• Tourism-focused destinations
• Strategic and emergency locations

Objectives of RCS UDAN Scheme

The scheme aims to make air travel accessible to every citizen while boosting regional development.

Main Objectives

• Enhance regional air connectivity
• Make flying affordable for all
• Promote tourism and trade
• Improve healthcare access
• Strengthen infrastructure in underserved regions

What is Viability Gap Funding (VGF)?

Viability Gap Funding (VGF) is a financial support mechanism provided by the government to airlines to operate routes that are not profitable under normal market conditions.

It helps:

• Maintain affordable ticket prices
• Encourage airlines to serve remote areas
• Ensure continuity of regional flights

Official Website

For more details, visit the official website of Airports Authority of India: https://www.aai.aero/en/rcs-udan

FAQs - RCS UDAN Scheme 2026

Q1. What is the RCS UDAN Scheme?
It is a government initiative to provide affordable air travel and improve regional connectivity.

Q2. What is the budget for UDAN Scheme 2026?
The government has approved ₹28,840 crore for the next phase.

Q3. How many routes are operational under UDAN?
Currently, 663 routes are operational.

Q4. How many airports are covered under UDAN?
A total of 95 airports are operational under the scheme.

Q5. What is the duration of the modified UDAN scheme?
The scheme will run from FY 2027 to FY 2036.

Q6. What is the fare under UDAN scheme?
Airfare is capped at around ₹2,500 for a one-hour flight.

Conclusion

The RCS UDAN Scheme 2026 is a game-changer for India's aviation sector. With a strong financial push and a clear vision, the scheme is set to expand connectivity, promote economic growth, and make air travel accessible to millions of Indians.