India is set to launch three new airlines – Air Kerala, Shankh Air and Alhind Air, founded in 2024 and are expected to start their operations in 2025.
Launch of 3 new airlines
These upcoming airlines have received the no objection certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and are now in the process of getting the final air operator certificate (AOC) from the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Shankh Air would become Uttar Pradesh’s first scheduled full-service airline to operate from the upcoming Noida Jewar International Airport and connect major cities within and outside UP, strengthening regional connectivity.
According to the airline, the initial routes will include Lucknow, Varanasi, Gorakhpur and metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru.
Shankh Air will lease its first narrow-body aircraft by the end of March and start operations with two leased aircraft.
The airline will increase its fleet to five aircraft within the first year as specified by DGCA. It would expand its presence to the international market by 2027.
Shankh Air’s chairman Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma has reportedly committed $50 million in initial funding while its parent company M/s Shankh Trading Pvt. Ltd. has pledged $200 million for its launch and expansion.
“Our vision at Shankh Air is anchored in enhancing accessibility and convenience for travellers across Uttar Pradesh and beyond. With a commitment to competitive pricing and exceptional customer service, we aspire to redefine air travel standards,” said Vishwakarma.
Kerala will soon turn into a hub for Indian airlines with two airlines, Air Kerala and Alhind Air this year. Both these airlines will now focus on regional demand and later cater to international demands, particularly focusing on the Gulf countries.
While both airlines compete to launch Kerala’s first scheduled airline, Air Kerala is set to become India’s first ultra-low-cost carrier. It would start its domestic journey in 2025 and international flights in 2026.
The airline’s primary focus is to connect the state’s Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities with major hubs.
The airline was originally conceived by the state government in 2005 but did not start operating due to regulatory challenges.
However, the private initiative will operate under Zettfly Aviation Pvt. Ltd., the brainchild of United Arab Emirates-based entrepreneurs Afi Ahmed and Ayub Kallada, the airline’s chairman and vice chairman respectively.
The ultra-low-cost airline’s fleet includes three ATR 72-600s, known for their fuel efficiency and will be operated from Cochin International Airport.
“Our aim is to make air travel a realistic option for a wider audience, thereby contributing to the empowerment of local economies. We are excited to offer the most competitive prices, without compromising on the quality of service and efficiency,” said Ahmed.
“With a vision to redefine regional air travel, Alhind Air is set to provide passengers with an enhanced travel experience, emphasizing reliability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. This launch represents a significant step forward in addressing the evolving needs of the aviation market and laying the foundation for future growth,” said a spokesperson.
The launch dates of these airlines are yet to be announced as they are subject to the pending flyer permit from DGCA.
The new airlines will bring huge changes to the aviation industry with better connectivity options, service quality and competitive pricing.
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