UDAN 5.5: Flights from Dams in Pune, Nashik, Nagpur, and Ratnagiri Soon
Pune, 25th June 2025: In a major boost to regional air connectivity, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has included seaplanes and helicopters under the UDAN 5.5 scheme, with a plan to launch seaplane services on 150 routes across the country by December 2025. Maharashtra is among the key states identified for this initiative, with eight potential locations proposed—including Pawana Dam near Pune.
The Maharashtra Airport Development Corporation (MADC) has submitted a proposal to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Civil Aviation Ministry, suggesting seaplane operations from the following water bodies:
Dhom Dam (Wai)
Gangapur Dam (Nashik)
Khindsi Dam (Nagpur)
Koradi Dam (Mehkar)
Pawana Dam (Pawananagar, Pune)
Pench Dam (Parshivani, Nagpur)
Ganpatipule (Ratnagiri)
Ratnagiri
The first phase of this nationwide rollout will commence from locations in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep. Aircraft manufactured by De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited will be deployed for these services.
Private operators like IndiGo and Pawan Hans have expressed interest in operating these routes. Under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) model, the government will subsidize a portion of the fare, making seaplane travel affordable—likely between ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 per passenger.
Boost for Regional Connectivity
Officials believe the inclusion of seaplanes under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) 5.5 scheme will not only ease access to remote and scenic regions but also promote tourism, reduce travel time, and bring economic benefits to smaller towns and rural areas.
An aviation department source said, “Seaplane connectivity can revolutionize travel in states like Maharashtra, where many picturesque locations are close to large water bodies. With VGF support, this becomes an accessible option for the common citizen.”
The development comes as the Ministry continues to push for last-mile connectivity by air, especially to areas not served by traditional airports. Once operational, the proposed services from Maharashtra are expected to draw both tourists and business travelers looking for quicker transport options.
What is UDAN?
Launched in 2016, the UDAN scheme aims to enhance regional connectivity through affordable air travel. The current UDAN 5.5 version expands this scope further to include helicopters and seaplanes, marking a new phase in India’s civil aviation infrastructure development.
With government clearances and operator interest aligning, Maharashtra may soon see seaplanes splashing down on its lakes and dams—bringing wings to the state’s tourism and transport potential.
