New Delhi — The Ministry of Civil Aviation has announced the launch of "Udaan Yatri Cafe," an initiative aimed at providing reasonably priced food and beverages to air travelers. The first cafe is being piloted at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and, if successful, will be extended to other airports across the country under the management of the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

This move follows Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha’s appeal in Parliament during the Winter session, where he raised concerns over inflated prices of basic essentials like water, tea, and snacks at airports. Chadha’s call for action resonated widely, as he highlighted the burden of exorbitant costs on air passengers and urged the government to ensure affordable facilities at airports.

With the establishment of the "Udaan Yatri Cafe," passengers at Kolkata airport will now be able to purchase items like water bottles, tea, coffee, and snacks at reasonable prices.

Welcoming the initiative, Chadha said, "Finally, the government has heard the voice of the common man. While this begins with Kolkata Airport, I hope similar facilities will be extended to all airports nationwide. This will prevent air travelers from paying Rs 100-250 for basic items like tea or water."

During his Parliamentary speech, the Rajya Sabha MP criticized the lack of affordable amenities and described the disorganized management of airports, which he compared to bus stands due to overcrowding and long queues. He also pointed out the inconsistency in the government’s pledge to make air travel accessible, citing sharp increases in airfares.

Chadha remarked, "The government promised that even citizens in slippers would fly, but now even those wearing Bata shoes find air travel unaffordable." He drew attention to disproportionate ticket costs, noting, "A ticket to Maldives is Rs 17,000, but a ticket to Lakshadweep—promoted as a tourist destination—costs Rs 25,000."