NEW DELHI — AAP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha has urged the central government to significantly scale up the Udaan Yatri Cafe initiative, aiming to curb the high cost of dining for air travelers across the country.
Speaking in the Upper House on Monday, Chadha acknowledged the government’s recent launch of the budget-friendly cafes but argued that the current footprint is insufficient to meet passenger needs.
Bridging the Cost Gap
Launched in February 2026, the Udaan Yatri Cafe scheme provides snacks and beverages at fixed, low rates—such as tea and water for ₹10 and coffee or snacks for ₹20. However, Chadha pointed out a major disparity in accessibility:
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Limited Reach: While India operates over 150 airports, the affordable cafes are currently functional at only 10 to 12 locations.
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Location Hurdles: Most existing cafes are situated in pre-check-in areas. Chadha stressed the need to relocate or add counters past security and check-in, where passengers spend the majority of their waiting time.
Improving the Passenger Experience
The MP highlighted that long queues and limited menu options often hinder the effectiveness of the current outlets. He called for a nationwide expansion to ensure that “affordable food at airports is treated as a basic convenience rather than a luxury.”
“Ideally, they should be located inside the departure area after security so that passengers can easily access them,” Chadha stated, noting that the move would make air travel more inclusive and passenger-friendly.
Udaan Yatri Cafe: Price Points at a Glance
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Tea / Bottled Water: ₹10
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Coffee / Snacks: ₹20
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Availability: Currently ~12 airports (Expansion requested for 150+ locations)
