The Indian aviation industry is gearing up for a significant transformation following the announcement of the Union Budget 2025-26, which places a strong emphasis on enhancing regional air connectivity and upgrading infrastructure. With the government’s renewed commitment to expanding domestic aviation, airline operators have welcomed the budget as a game-changer for the sector.

One of the most notable highlights is the introduction of a modified UDAN scheme, designed to extend air travel accessibility to 120 new destinations over the next decade. This expansion aims to accommodate 40 million additional passengers, ensuring that air connectivity reaches more remote and underserved areas. The initiative will also support the development of helipads and small airports, particularly in hilly regions, aspirational districts, and the North East, where air travel remains a crucial mode of transportation.

Since its inception in April 2017, the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) initiative has revolutionized affordable air travel in India. It has successfully enabled 1.5 crore middle-class travelers to experience the convenience of flying, established 88 operational airports, and facilitated 619 new air routes. With the latest expansion, the government aims to further bridge the connectivity gap between major hubs and smaller towns, boosting tourism and regional economies.

Alongside enhancing regional air travel, the budget also underscores airport infrastructure development. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her budget presentation, announced the establishment of new greenfield airports in Bihar to meet the region’s increasing air traffic demand. Additionally, plans are in place to expand Patna Airport and develop a brownfield airport at Bihta, enhancing air travel capacity for passengers and businesses alike.

Over the past decade, India’s aviation landscape has evolved rapidly, with the number of operational airports doubling to accommodate the country’s growing appetite for air travel. This latest investment in connectivity and infrastructure is expected to strengthen India’s position as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally, paving the way for sustained growth and economic development.

Airline operators and industry leaders have welcomed these measures, citing them as a significant step toward making air travel more accessible and efficient. By focusing on regional expansion, infrastructure upgrades, and passenger growth, the Union Budget 2025-26 sets the stage for a new era in Indian aviation, bringing remote regions closer to the national air network and fueling economic progress.

The post Patna Airport Set for a Major Expansion as Union Budget 2025-26 Unveils New Infrastructure Upgrades and Regional Connectivity Boost: What You Need To Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.