The Indian aviation industry is set for a major expansion in 2025, with the launch of three new airlines—Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air. These carriers will begin operations within months of each other, catering to rising demand and enhancing air connectivity in key regions.
Expanding India’s Aviation Landscape
Despite having 12 operational passenger airlines, India’s aviation market is highly concentrated, with two major carriers controlling over 90% of the passenger share. The rise in air travel demand and new airport developments present lucrative opportunities for fresh entrants.
Shankh Air will be Uttar Pradesh’s first full-service airline, operating from the upcoming Noida Jewar International Airport (DXN).
Air Kerala and Alhind Air will compete to become Kerala’s first scheduled airline, focusing on regional routes and future expansion to the Gulf.
All three airlines received No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) in 2024 and now await their Air Operator Certificates (AOC) from the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Shankh Air: Taking Flight from Uttar Pradesh
Operating from Noida Jewar International Airport, Shankh Air will be the first scheduled airline from Uttar Pradesh. The airline will start with two aircraft, expanding to five within a year.
Planned Routes:
Domestic: Lucknow (LKO), Varanasi (VNS), Gorakhpur (GOP), Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Bengaluru (BLR).
International (By 2027): Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian destinations.
The airline, backed by $50 million in initial funding and a $200 million investment from parent company Shankh Trading Pvt. Ltd., aims to revolutionize air travel in the region.
> “Our vision at Shankh Air is anchored in enhancing accessibility and convenience for travellers across Uttar Pradesh and beyond,” said Chairman Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma.
Air Kerala & Alhind Air: Strengthening South India’s Aviation Network
Two airlines—Air Kerala and Alhind Air—will operate from Kerala, aiming to enhance regional and international connectivity.
Alhind Air:
Operated by Calicut-based Alhind Group, transitioning from a travel agency to an airline.
Initial Fleet: Two ATR 72-600 aircraft, expanding to seven within a year.
Base Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK).
Future Expansion: Plans to launch international flights to Gulf countries within two years.
What’s Next?
The launch of these airlines in 2025 marks a significant moment in Indian aviation. With their entry, passengers can expect enhanced regional connectivity, improved service quality, and competitive pricing. However, final launch dates depend on regulatory approvals from the DGCA.
As India’s air travel industry booms, these new carriers will play a crucial role in shaping the future of aviation in the country.
