India’s aviation landscape is poised for significant transformation in 2025 with three new airlines preparing to launch operations. This development will end Akasa Air’s status as the country’s youngest airline, having launched in December 2021. Here are all of the other important details that you would need to know about these new airlines and their impact on aviation in India.
These New Airlines Are All Set To Transform Aviation In India
Despite India currently having 12 functioning passenger airlines, the market remains heavily concentrated, with just two carriers serving over 90 per cent of passengers. The impending arrival of Air Kerala, Shankh Air and Alhind Air aims to disrupt this imbalance.
All three airlines, founded in 2024, have secured no objection certificates from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and are awaiting their air operator certificates from the Director General of Civil Aviation. Shankh Air will become Uttar Pradesh’s first scheduled full-service airline.
It will be operating from the upcoming Noida Jewar International Airport. With initial funding of $50 million and a pledge of $200 million from its parent company, the carrier plans to lease its first narrow-body aircraft by March-end.
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More About These New Airlines Soon To Take To Indian Skies
Shankh Air will initially connect major cities within UP and key metro destinations, with international expansion targeted for 2027. Kerala will host two new airlines: Air Kerala and Alhind Air. Air Kerala is set to become India’s first ultra-low-cost carrier.
It will focus on connecting Kerala’s smaller cities with major hubs before expanding internationally in 2026. Originally conceived by the state government in 2005, the airline is now being launched by UAE-based entrepreneurs operating under Zettfly Aviation Pvt. Ltd. with a fleet of three ATR 72-600 aircraft.
Simultaneously, Calicut-based Alhind Group will launch Alhind Air as a regional commuter airline, also operating from Cochin International Airport with ATR 72-600 aircraft. The airline plans to expand to international destinations, particularly Gulf countries, within two years of launch.
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The introduction of these airlines promises enhanced connectivity, improved service quality and competitive pricing across the Indian aviation sector, though precise launch dates remain pending regulatory approval.
Cover Image Credits: Alhind Air and Shankh Air/Website
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First Published: March 24, 2025 10:34 AM