Uttar Pradesh Wins ‘Most Proactive State’ Award Under UDAN for Boosting Regional Air Connectivity

Uttar Pradesh Leads in Regional Aviation Expansion

Uttar Pradesh has strengthened its position in India’s civil aviation ecosystem after being awarded the ‘Most Proactive State’ honour under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)–UDAN in the Non-Priority Area category. The national recognition highlights the state’s sustained efforts to expand affordable air connectivity, especially by linking smaller cities with major economic centres.

Recognition for Policy-Driven Connectivity

The award is given to states outside the hill and North-Eastern categories, making the competition particularly intense. Uttar Pradesh’s selection reflects consistent coordination with the Centre, timely policy interventions, and active facilitation of airline operations under the UDAN framework. Officials noted that the state focused on route viability, airport readiness, and infrastructure upgrades to ensure long-term success rather than symbolic connectivity.

Surge in Passenger Air Traffic

The impact of improved regional connectivity is visible in passenger growth figures. Air passenger traffic in Uttar Pradesh increased from about 60 lakh in 2016 to over 1.28 crore in 2024 , and further crossed 1.55 crore in 2025 . The growth has been driven largely by domestic travel, indicating that air transport is becoming more accessible for business, tourism, education, and personal travel across the state.

Strong Growth in Air Cargo Movement

Alongside passenger traffic, air cargo has expanded rapidly. Cargo volumes rose from 5,895 metric tonnes in 2016 to nearly 28,000 metric tonnes in 2024 , reaching 29,761 metric tonnes in 2025 . This translates into a compound annual growth rate of around 17.6 per cent over nine years. Enhanced air cargo capacity has improved supply chains for agriculture, MSMEs, and export-oriented sectors by enabling faster movement of perishable and high-value goods.

Important Facts for Exams

• RCS–UDAN aims to make air travel affordable and connect underserved airports

• Non-Priority Area category excludes hill and North-Eastern states

• Passenger traffic in Uttar Pradesh crossed 1.5 crore in 2025

• Air cargo growth supports agriculture, MSMEs, and export logistics

Towards an Aviation and Logistics Hub

With the expansion of regional airports and major projects such as the upcoming Noida International Airport at Jewar , Uttar Pradesh is steadily emerging as a key aviation and logistics hub in northern India. Combined with rising passenger demand and cargo movement, these investments are expected to deepen the state’s integration with national and global markets.