'Ensure ease of travel for all flyers from both rural & urban areas': Government to airlines

NEW DELHI: With ude desh ka aam naagrik (UDAN) no longer just a slogan but a reality, the govt has turned its attention to easing the flights of the common man. Union aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu Monday held a meeting with airlines which focused on safety but also stressed on the need for ensuring ease of travel for all travellers, irrespective of whether they come from rural or urban areas.

“Monday’s meeting focused on safety wherein incidents were reviewed along with airlines’ maintenance practices. Airlines were also asked to ensure ease of travel for all travellers as an increasing number of Tier II & III cities are getting airports now. The number of airports has increased from 74 (in 2014) to 163 at present this will jump to 164 when Purnia (in Bihar) opens soon,” said a senior official.

The ministry stressed that airlines must ensure ease of travel for even those who may not necessarily have a smartphone. “There are a large number of first time flyers. Airlines and airport operators have been asked to ensure end to end ease of travel from them right from the time of booking ticket,” the official said.

Minister Naidu said on X: “Held the monthly review meetings with airlines (Monday). Along with senior officials from the ministry of civil aviation and Directorate General of Civil Aviation, comprehensive discussions were held covering safety, fleet performance and passenger facilitation . We are ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols by airlines, while also facilitating smoother coordination. The idea is to enhance safety oversight and improve the overall passenger convenience.”