New Delhi: In a significant step towards improving regional connectivity, the Civil Aviation Ministry inaugurated its BOEING-737 flight from Kolkata to Goa, with a stop at Hindon, on Saturday. Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu launched the project at Hindon Airport, highlighting effective cooperation between civilian and military sectors.
Hindon Airport, situated in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, is a vital asset for the nation due to its strategic position, dual-use capabilities, military facilities, and ability to manage varied air traffic. The addition of flights from Hindon is expected to alleviate congestion in the NCR airspace.
This flight initiative is part of the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik) program, reflecting the Indian Air Force’s dedication to supporting military and civilian air operations, thereby enhancing access to various destinations. Beyond its primary mission of securing the nation’s airspace, the Indian Air Force plays a role in nation-building by backing projects like UDAN, which aims to improve regional air connectivity across India.
On a related note, the Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Rammohan Naidu, also inaugurated the UDAN Yatri Cafe at Chennai Airport on Thursday. This is the second UDAN Yatri Cafe, following the first opened at Kolkata Airport in December last year. Due to high passenger demand, this initiative will soon be expanded nationwide, including the upcoming UDAN Yatri Cafe at Delhi Airport, according to DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar.
The cafe at Chennai Airport, located in the pre-check area of the T1 domestic terminal, will offer hygienic refreshments at affordable prices: water for Rs 10, tea for Rs 10, coffee for Rs 20, samosas for Rs 20, and a sweet of the day for Rs 20. In his remarks to the media, Naidu emphasized that the UDAN Yatri Cafe embodies Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s vision for inclusive air travel, making it more convenient, accessible, and affordable for everyone. Following its successful introduction in Kolkata, there has been significant demand for similar services at other airports. He also noted that the expansion of Terminal 2 is in progress to enhance international operations, along with efforts like the Digi Yatra and Trusted Traveller Programme E-gates for a seamless digital travel experience.