Delhi: India’s aviation industry is set for significant expansion in 2025 with the introduction of three new airlines—Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air. These carriers are expected to enhance regional connectivity and introduce more competition in the growing market.
Despite India already having 12 operational passenger airlines, the market remains concentrated, with two major carriers handling over 90% of air traffic. With an increasing number of airports and rising demand for air travel, the launch of these new airlines is well-timed to cater to expanding passenger needs.
New Airlines Entering the Indian Market
Shankh Air will be based at the upcoming Noida Jewar International Airport (DXN), while Kerala will see the launch of two airlines—Air Kerala and Alhind Air—both vying to become the state’s first scheduled carrier with a focus on regional and international routes.
These airlines received their no-objection certificates (NOCs) from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) in 2024 and are now awaiting final approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) before commencing operations.
Shankh Air
Shankh Air is set to become Uttar Pradesh’s first full-service airline, launching from Noida Jewar International Airport. Initial domestic routes will include Lucknow (LKO), Varanasi (VNS), Gorakhpur (GOP), Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and Bengaluru (BLR).
The airline plans to lease its first aircraft by March 2025, starting with two narrow-body planes and expanding to five within a year. International operations are projected for 2027. Backed by an initial investment of $50 million, with a total commitment of $200 million from parent company Shankh Trading Pvt. Ltd., Shankh Air aims to provide enhanced accessibility for travelers across Uttar Pradesh and beyond.
Air Kerala
Air Kerala, envisioned as India’s first ultra-low-cost carrier, is set to begin domestic operations in 2025 and expand to international routes by 2026. Originally conceptualized by the Kerala state government in 2005, the project is now being led by UAE-based entrepreneurs Afi Ahmed and Ayub Kallada under Zettfly Aviation Pvt. Ltd.
The airline will start with three ATR 72-600 aircraft based at Cochin International Airport (COK), focusing on connecting smaller cities in Kerala to major domestic and Middle Eastern destinations, catering primarily to the Malayali expatriate community.
Alhind Air
Alhind Group, known for its travel and tour operations, is venturing into aviation with the launch of Alhind Air as a regional commuter airline.
The Calicut-based carrier will start operations with two ATR 72-600 aircraft from Cochin International Airport (COK) and plans to expand to seven aircraft within its first year. The airline aims to serve domestic routes initially and expand to Gulf destinations within two years.
Future of India’s New Airlines
The entry of these three new airlines in 2025 marks a major development in India’s aviation sector, offering passengers improved regional connectivity, better service options, and more competitive pricing.
Final launch dates remain pending as the airlines complete regulatory approvals from the DGCA.
