In a major push to strengthen domestic air connectivity, the Central Government has approved the Regional Connectivity Scheme – Modified UDAN for a 10-year period from FY 2026–27 to FY 2035–36, with a total outlay of ₹28,840 crore. Under the revamped UDAN scheme, 100 airports are planned to be developed from existing unserved airstrips to boost regional connectivity across the country.
As part of this initiative, 11 greenfield airports have been proposed in Gujarat to improve connectivity, promote tourism, and support industrial growth across various regions of the state.
The proposed locations include Ankleshwar, Morbi, Rajpipla, Botad, Dwarka, Dhordo (Kutch), Rajula, Dahod, Ambaji, Dholavira, and Palitana.
Boost to tourism, industry, and tribal regions
The new airports are expected to enhance access to key religious and tourist destinations such as Dwarka, Ambaji, Dholavira, and Palitana. Improved connectivity to Dhordo is also likely to boost tourism linked to the Rann Utsav.
Industrial hubs like Ankleshwar, Morbi, and Rajula are set to benefit from better air links, which could attract fresh investments and create employment opportunities.
The proposed airport in Dahod holds particular significance, as the tribal-dominated district currently lacks adequate air connectivity.
Status of proposed projects
Land acquisition has begun in Dwarka and Dahod, while feasibility and technical studies have been completed or are underway in Morbi, Dhordo, Dholavira, and Rajpipla.
Projects in Botad, Rajula, and Palitana are facing viability challenges, while the Ambaji airport remains in the planning stage.
Meanwhile, the Ankleshwar airport project is nearing reality, with the airstrip ready and supporting infrastructure progressing rapidly.