India’s aviation sector is set for a major transformation in 2025 with the launch of three new airlines, Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air. These carriers are expected to enhance connectivity, create competition, and cater to increasing passenger demand in the country.
New Airlines Enter a Growing Market
Despite India having 12 operational passenger airlines, the industry is largely dominated by two major players, who control over 90% of the market. With more airports being developed and domestic air travel rising, there is ample space for new airlines to thrive.
All three new entrants have received no-objection certificates (NOCs) from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) in 2024. They are now awaiting final approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) before launching operations.
Shankh Air
Shankh Air will operate from the soon-to-open Noida Jewar International Airport, making it Uttar Pradesh’s first scheduled full-service airline. The airline plans to connect cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur with major hubs such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
With an initial fleet of two aircraft, Shankh Air aims to expand to five planes within a year. The airline has received $50 million in initial funding from Chairman Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma, with an additional $200 million allocated by its parent company, Shankh Trading Pvt. Ltd. International routes are expected to be introduced by 2027.
Air Kerala
Air Kerala is gearing up to become India’s first ultra-low-cost airline. Initially planned by the Kerala government in 2005, the airline is now privately backed by Zettfly Aviation Pvt. Ltd., led by UAE-based entrepreneurs Afi Ahmed and Ayub Kallada.
Set to operate from Cochin International Airport, Air Kerala will start domestic services in 2025 with three ATR 72-600 aircraft. The airline’s goal is to improve connectivity between Kerala’s smaller cities and major travel hubs. By 2026, it plans to introduce international flights, catering primarily to the Malayali diaspora in the Middle East.
Alhind Air
Alhind Group, a well-known travel agency, is making a major move into the airline industry with Alhind Air. Based in Calicut, the airline will begin operations with two ATR 72-600 aircraft from Cochin International Airport. Over the next year, it plans to expand its fleet to seven planes.
Within two years, Alhind Air aims to launch international flights to the Gulf region, focusing on serving the large Malayali expatriate community.
A Bright Future for Indian Aviation
The introduction of Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air marks a new chapter for India’s aviation industry. These airlines are set to improve domestic and regional connectivity, offer competitive fares, and cater to the needs of a growing number of air travelers. While their final launch dates depend on regulatory approvals, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Indian aviation.
