New Delhi, July 17 -- The Centre has proposed an overall budgetary support of Rs 28,840 crore over 10 years for the next phase of the regional air connectivity scheme, including viability gap funding for airlines and the development and maintenance of airports and heliports, said Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu.

Speaking at an internal workshop attended by Ministry of Civil Aviation officials, airline operators and airport operators, Naidu said, "The overall budget outlay is Rs 28,840 crore. This includes viability gap funding support for airlines over 10 years to ensure affordable fares for passengers, along with support for airport development."

According to a ministry presentation made at the workshop, Rs 10,043 crore h...