Air Kerala, Alhindair, and Shankh Air

India to See Three New Homegrown Airlines Air Kerala, Alhindair, and Shankh Air in the Skies in 2025

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India is set to witness a significant expansion in its aviation industry, with three new homegrown airlines preparing to take to the skies in 2025.

These airlines—Air Kerala, Alhindair, and Shankh Air—have each received the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Civil Aviation Ministry and are now working towards obtaining their Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

The entry of these new homegrown airlines reflects the ongoing entrepreneurial efforts in India’s aviation sector, as companies look to carve out their space in both domestic and international markets.

The Rise of Air Kerala, Alhindair, and Shankh Air India’s Aviation Market

India’s aviation sector is currently dominated by major players like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet. However, this dynamic landscape is continuously evolving, with newer entrants seeking to provide more choices for consumers.

The rise of new homegrown airlines like Air Kerala, Alhindair, and Shankh Air represents a fresh wave of competition and innovation.

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IndiGo remains the market leader, but the consolidation of Air India with Vistara, and Air India Express with AirAsia India/AIX Connect, has added complexity to the Indian aviation ecosystem.

Meanwhile, SpiceJet is facing operational challenges, and Go First is heading towards liquidation, creating gaps in the market that new homegrown airlines are eager to fill. Recent years have also seen the successful launch of Akasa Air, which began operations in 2022 and has already expanded to international routes.

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Similarly, regional carriers like Star Air, FlyBig, and IndiaOne Air have been focusing on connecting smaller cities using turboprop aircraft. The upcoming new homegrown airlines are aiming to take advantage of these market shifts, providing even more options for Indian travelers.

Shankh Air: A Full-Service Airline from Uttar Pradesh

One of the most exciting developments in the Indian aviation scene is the emergence of Shankh Air, which has received its NOC and is preparing for a 2025 launch. Promoted by Sharvan K. Vishwakarma, who has a background in construction materials trading, Shankh Air is based in Uttar Pradesh.

The airline is expected to hub out of the new Noida International Airport in Jewar and aims to operate Boeing 737-800NG aircraft in a two-class, full-service model.

Shankh Air’s journey from obtaining its NOC to launching flights is a complex process. Before receiving the Air Operator Permit from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the airline must complete several steps, including acquiring aircraft, hiring staff, passing security checks, and conducting proving flights.

Once these hurdles are cleared, Shankh Air can begin offering its services to Indian passengers, adding yet another option to the growing list of new homegrown airlines.

Shankh Air’s focus on full-service operations differentiates it from many of its competitors. While budget airlines have dominated India’s aviation market in recent years, Shankh Air’s full-service model will offer passengers more amenities, aiming to capture a different segment of the market. The airline is expected to launch in late 2024, but 2025 is a more realistic target for when Shankh Air will fully take off.

Air Kerala: Bringing Aviation to God’s Own Country

Air Kerala is another new homegrown airline gearing up for a 2025 launch, and its journey has been long-awaited. For decades, there has been talk of establishing a Kerala-based airline, but it is only now that concrete steps have been taken.

The airline, promoted by UAE-based Afi Ahmed and Ayub Kallada, will be based in Kochi and initially operate with ATR-72 turboprop aircraft, connecting cities within Kerala and other parts of South India.

What makes Air Kerala unique among new homegrown airlines is its focus on serving the state of Kerala and its diaspora, particularly the “Non-Resident Keralites” living in the Middle East.

Although the airline’s initial operations will be domestic, there are plans to expand internationally once the airline has scaled up to a fleet of 20 aircraft. This ambitious expansion will help Air Kerala tap into the large demand for flights between Kerala and the Middle East, where many Keralites live and work.

Air Kerala’s ultra-low-cost model sets it apart from Shankh Air, which is pursuing a full-service approach. By focusing on regional connectivity and low-cost operations, Air Kerala aims to provide affordable air travel within South India while gradually building its international footprint.

As the airline works towards securing slots and bilateral agreements for its international routes, it hopes to offer competitive prices to travelers in the region.

The Future of Indian Aviation: What to Expect from New Homegrown Airlines

The arrival of new homegrown airlines like Air Kerala, Alhindair, and Shankh Air highlights the ongoing transformation of India’s aviation sector. Each of these airlines brings something different to the table, from Shankh Air’s full-service model to Air Kerala’s regional focus and ultra-low-cost approach.

Alhindair, also based in Kerala, is still in the early stages of development, but its entry will further intensify competition in the Southern Indian aviation market.

The success of these new homegrown airlines will depend on various factors, including their ability to secure financing, attract passengers, and navigate the regulatory landscape. Securing an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) is just one of the many steps these airlines must take before they can begin operations.

Additionally, they will need to establish a strong presence in key airports, build reliable IT systems, and hire experienced personnel to ensure smooth operations.

However, the potential rewards for these airlines are significant. India is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world, and the demand for air travel is expected to rise sharply in the coming years.

With a population of over 1.4 billion people and a growing middle class, India represents a massive opportunity for new homegrown airlines looking to provide more choices for domestic and international travelers.

The aviation sector is also benefiting from ongoing infrastructure development, such as the construction of new airports like Noida International Airport. These projects will provide much-needed capacity for the country’s growing air traffic, making it easier for new homegrown airlines to establish routes and reach new customers.

As 2025 approaches, the competition among new homegrown airlines and established carriers will only intensify. IndiGo, with its large fleet and extensive domestic network, will remain a formidable player, but the entry of new airlines will challenge its dominance.

Air India, backed by the Tata Group, is also undergoing significant changes as it consolidates with Vistara and Air India Express. These developments will create both opportunities and challenges for new homegrown airlines as they seek to make their mark in this rapidly evolving industry.

63 thoughts on “India to See Three New Homegrown Airlines Air Kerala, Alhindair, and Shankh Air in the Skies in 2025”

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