In a bold move to expand its aviation sector, India is poised to welcome three new airlines in 2025, signaling a significant boost to both regional and international connectivity. The Indian aviation landscape, already one of the fastest-growing in the world, is set to become even more competitive with the entry of Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air. These airlines are in the final stages of securing regulatory approvals, aiming to start operations by mid-2025, which promises to offer more travel options and potentially more competitive fares for passengers.
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Shankh Air, based in Lucknow, is among the first to make headlines with its plans. It intends to launch with a fleet of five Airbus A320-200 aircraft, focusing initially on domestic routes before expanding its network internationally. The airline's strategy includes connecting key Indian cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi with emerging travel hubs like Varanasi and Gorakhpur, tapping into the cultural tourism and pilgrimage travel market. By 2026, Shankh Air has ambitiously planned to increase its fleet to 15 aircraft, aiming to become a significant player in the competitive Indian aviation market. Moving to the southern part of the country, Air Kerala and Alhind Air from Kerala are set to invigorate the local aviation scene with a focus on regional connectivity. Air Kerala, founded by a group of Dubai-based Malayali entrepreneurs, plans to operate from multiple airports in Kerala, including Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kannur. This airline aims to enhance regional connectivity within Kerala while also linking key South Indian cities. The state government has shown keen support by meeting with the airline's delegation, led by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, to discuss the venture's potential impact on the local economy and tourism.
Alhind Air, another Kerala-based initiative, is backed by the Alhind Group, a conglomerate with a significant presence in various sectors. This airline is preparing for a mid-2025 launch, starting with ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft, well-suited for the short-haul routes it plans to serve. Alhind Air's initial focus will be on enhancing connectivity within Kerala before expanding to domestic and international networks. The airline's strategy includes targeting the large expatriate population, particularly in the Gulf region, where many Keralites work. Plans are in place to extend services to international destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi within 18 months of its launch, further leveraging the strong Kerala-Gulf connection. These new airlines are not just about adding more flights; they represent a broader vision of enhancing India's aviation infrastructure. The year 2025 will also see the operational start of two new international airports - one in Noida and another in Navi Mumbai, which are expected to alleviate congestion at existing hubs like Delhi and Mumbai. This expansion in airport infrastructure, alongside the introduction of new airlines, is poised to create a more dynamic aviation ecosystem in India.
The entry of these carriers into the market is expected to stimulate competition, which could lead to more affordable ticket prices and better service quality as airlines vie for market share. The Indian aviation sector, with its growing passenger base projected to reach 164-170 million by March 2025, is at a pivotal moment. With these new entrants, the sector not only aims to cater to the domestic travel surge but also to position India as a global aviation hub with increased direct international connectivity. However, with growth comes challenges, including regulatory hurdles, supply chain issues for aircraft deliveries, and the need for sustainable operations. As these airlines gear up for takeoff, the focus will also be on how they navigate these challenges while contributing to the vibrant future of Indian aviation.