Three New Airlines Set Take Off in 2025: Which Cities Will They Connect?
The Indian aviation sector is gearing up for a historic expansion in 2025 with the launch of three new airlines—Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air—set to begin operations within months of each other. This move comes as India’s growing air travel demand and increasing airport infrastructure create fresh opportunities for new players in a market long dominated by just two major carriers.
A Market Ready for Change
Despite having 12 operational passenger airlines, India’s aviation sector remains highly concentrated, with over 90% of passengers flying with just two carriers. However, the rise in regional air travel and the government’s push for better connectivity have opened doors for new entrants. All three airlines have secured no-objection certificates (NOCs) from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and are now awaiting final air operator certificates (AOCs) from the DGCA.
Shankh Air: Uttar Pradesh’s First Full-Service Airline
Based at the upcoming Noida Jewar International Airport (DXN), Shankh Air will be Uttar Pradesh’s first scheduled full-service carrier. Starting with routes connecting Lucknow, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and major metros like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, the airline plans to lease its first narrow-body aircraft by March 2025.
The airline has secured 50 million USD in initial funding from Chairman Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma, supported by a 200 million USD commitment from parent company Shankh Trading Pvt Ltd. These investments will fuel its expansion to five aircraft within a year, with international routes planned by 2027.
“Our vision is to enhance accessibility for travelers across Uttar Pradesh and beyond,” said Vishwakarma.
Air Kerala: India’s First Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier
After nearly two decades in the making, Air Kerala is finally set to take off as India’s first ultra-low-cost carrier. Initially proposed by the Kerala government in 2005, the airline is now a private venture under Zettfly Aviation Pvt. Ltd., led by UAE-based entrepreneurs Afi Ahmed and Ayub Kallada.
Operating from Cochin International Airport (COK), Air Kerala will start with three ATR 72-600 aircraft, focusing on connecting Kerala’s smaller cities with major hubs before expanding to Gulf routes in 2026 to serve the Malayali expatriate community.
Alhind Air: From Travel Agency to Regional Airline
Calicut-based Alhind Group, a well-known travel agency, is venturing into aviation with Alhind Air, a regional commuter airline. Starting with two ATR 72-600 aircraft from Cochin International Airport, the airline plans to expand its fleet to seven within a year and begin Gulf operations within two years.
A New Era for Indian Aviation
The entry of these three airlines signals a transformative phase for India’s aviation sector, promising better regional connectivity, competitive pricing, and improved service quality. While final launch dates depend on DGCA approvals, 2025 is poised to be a landmark year for Indian air travel.
