In a significant move aimed at improving passenger experience, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has launched the “Udaan Yatri Cafe” at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, marking the first initiative to offer affordable food at the airport. The new cafe, a welcome change for budget-conscious travelers, has introduced a range of food and beverages at much lower prices compared to the usual offerings at airports.
At Udaan Yatri Cafe, passengers can enjoy a water bottle or a cup of tea for just ₹10. Additionally, samosas, coffee, and sweets are available for ₹20, making it one of the most budget-friendly food options available at an airport in India. This initiative aims to provide a more accessible and cost-effective food choice for passengers, especially given the often inflated prices of food at airports.
The launch of the cafe comes after a suggestion made by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha during the winter session of Parliament in 2024. While participating in discussions on the Indian Aviation Bill 2024, Chadha raised concerns over the high prices of food at airports and urged the government to take action to make food more affordable for travelers. His suggestion found a positive response, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation responded by setting up Udaan Yatri Cafe at Kolkata airport as a pilot project.
This new initiative reflects the government’s commitment to improving the overall airport experience for passengers, ensuring that even those on a tight budget can enjoy basic refreshments without breaking the bank. It also serves as a step toward making airports more passenger-friendly, aligning with the growing focus on enhancing passenger services and satisfaction.
As the Udaan Yatri Cafe initiative gains traction, it is expected to be replicated at other major airports across India, bringing affordable food options to travelers nationwide and encouraging other airports to follow suit in improving customer service.