Udaan Yatri Cafe at Kolkata Airport Offers Affordable Snacks and Drinks; Soon to be Available at all Airports in India
Airports have long been infamous for overpriced food and beverages, but the Udaan Yatri Cafe at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport is changing that narrative. With piping hot samosas for just ₹20 and refreshing cups of tea for ₹10, this cafe has become a game-changer for budget-conscious travelers.
Affordable Food at an Unlikely Place
Traditionally, airports are seen as places where even a simple snack can drain your wallet. However, the Udaan Yatri Cafe, launched by the Civil Aviation Ministry in partnership with the Airports Authority of India (AAI), is defying expectations. Strategically located in the departure area, the cafe offers an array of snacks and beverages at prices akin to local street vendors. From ₹10 bottles of water to ₹20 coffee and sweets, the menu is designed to bring a smile to every traveler’s face.
A Resounding Success
The Udaan Yatri Cafe debuted on December 21, 2024, during Kolkata Airport’s centenary celebrations. In just its first month, the cafe served a staggering 27,000 passengers, averaging 900 daily visitors. The overwhelming response stems from a simple premise: addressing passenger concerns about exorbitant food prices, as revealed in AAI’s feedback surveys.
Backed by Visionary Leadership
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has championed this initiative as part of his broader mission to make air travel more accessible and affordable. “The Udaan Yatri Cafe at Kolkata Airport is India’s first affordable food outlet at an airport. This initiative reflects our commitment to making travel easier for every passenger,” the minister shared in a heartfelt social media post.
The minister’s video celebrating the 100th anniversary of Kolkata Airport and the cafe’s success has garnered widespread appreciation, reinforcing the need for similar ventures nationwide.
What’s Next?
The success of the Udaan Yatri Cafe has sparked hope that such economical outlets will soon open at airports across India. If implemented widely, this move could mark the beginning of a new era where passengers enjoy affordable air travel not just in terms of tickets but also in essential amenities.
More Than Just a Cafe
Beyond affordability, Udaan Yatri Cafe is a symbol of inclusivity and accessibility. It’s a step toward making air travel comfortable for every section of society, embodying a simple yet powerful idea: everyone deserves a refreshing cup of tea and a warm snack, even at 35,000 feet.
So, the next time you’re at Kolkata Airport, don’t forget to visit Udaan Yatri Cafe. It’s not just a quick meal—it’s a small revolution redefining air travel in India.
