Lilabari Airport in Northern Assam’s Lakhimpur district has significantly improved air connectivity under the UDAN or the Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik Scheme, benefiting local communities. Launched to enhance aviation in underserved areas, the airport has bolstered transportation options, improved residents’ quality of life, and stimulated economic growth, particularly in tourism. Here are all of the other important details that you would need to know about this particular underserved airport in Assam.
Assam’s Lilabari Airport Gets Boost Under UDAN Scheme
The Airport Manager and ATC in charge Vijendra Yadav highlighted the airport’s progress to ANI. “Passenger numbers have increased from 33,000 last year to over 39,000 this year. In 2024, Lilabari Airport handled more than 1,100 flights,” Yadav reported.
According to an article which was recently published by The Financial Express or the FE, he emphasised that the airport’s expanding infrastructure is fostering regional development by improving accessibility to smaller towns like Lilabari and promoting economic growth.
Yadav explained how the airport has contributed to the region’s economic uplift and tourism. By offering convenient travel options and reducing journey times, it has positively impacted local tourism. “We’ve expanded the terminal’s seating capacity to accommodate more passengers,” he noted.
Other Details About The UDAN Scheme
Lilabari’s transformation into a regional hub has boosted local commerce, creating new growth opportunities for area businesses. Launched in October 2016 by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the UDAN scheme aims to develop air connectivity in smaller cities, focusing on tier II and III towns.
The government plans to revive and develop 100 underutilised or unserved airports, helipads, and water aerodromes by 2024. The scheme prioritises affordable air travel and improved regional connectivity, especially for remote areas.
UDAN operates on a self-financing model, with viability gap funding provided to selected airline operators. To date, ₹2,355 crore has been disbursed to support UDAN flights. The scheme has successfully made air travel more affordable and accessible to smaller towns like Lilabari, contributing to regional economic growth.
Have you ever visited the Lilabari Airport? Do you plan on visiting Assam soon? Let us know in the comments section below!
Cover Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
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