Following the Centre's approval of the Regional Connectivity Scheme- Modified UDAN, fresh momentum is expected in aviation development across Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and the wider Marathwada region, even as officials acknowledge existing challenges.
The decision to develop 100 airports and 200 heliports nationwide is being seen as a significant opportunity for expanding air connectivity in the region. Under the scheme, aerodrome development will be undertaken through a 'challenge mode', enabling states and union Territories to submit proposals based on demand and preparedness an approach expected to accelerate infrastructure growth. Financial assistance will be provided for airport operations and maintenance, ensuring stability in manpower expenditure and operational sustainability. To promote domestic aircraft manufacturing under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, incentives will be extended for aircraft procurement. Addressing a press conference at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Airport on Thursday, Joint General Manager Vijay Korde shared details of the newly announced scheme. Manager Vaishali Ande, Sunny Das and Assistant Manager Sandeep Prasad were also present.
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Affordable fares for tier-2 and tier-3 cities
The scheme places special emphasis on making air travel affordable for passengers from tier-2 and tier-3 cities. The tenure of viability gap funding has been extended from three years to five years, which is expected to improve the commercial sustainability of new routes.