Indian Aviation Industry Enters a New Phase as Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air Set to Launch in 2025

Published on February 10, 2025

India’s aviation sector is set to soar in 2025 with the launch of Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air, boosting connectivity, competition, and travel options.

The Indian aviation sector is gearing up for a transformative year in 2025 with the launch of three new airlines—Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air. These new entrants aim to boost domestic and international connectivity, providing travelers with more choices and increasing competition in the market.

Shankh Air: Uttar Pradesh’s First Scheduled Airline

Shankh Air, based in Lucknow, is all set to make history as the first scheduled airline from Uttar Pradesh. With plans to begin operations by May 2025, the airline is in the final stages of securing its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Initially, Shankh Air will operate a fleet of five Airbus A320-200 aircraft, with ambitious plans to expand to 15 aircraft by 2026. The airline, originally considering Boeing’s narrow-body jets, has opted for Airbus A320ceo planes, likely due to better cost efficiency and availability.

The project is backed by Chairman Sharvan Kumar Vishwakarma, who has committed $50 million, alongside an additional $200 million investment from its parent company, Shankh Trading Pvt. Ltd. This financial push will support both the airline’s domestic launch and its future international expansion, planned for 2027.

An official announcement on fleet leasing details is expected later this month, as Shankh Air finalizes agreements with lessors. With a vision to strengthen connectivity across India, the airline also plans to venture into international markets, focusing on bridging gaps in underserved routes.

Southern India Welcomes Air Kerala and Alhind Air

Kerala, a key hub for Indian aviation, is set to welcome two new players: Air Kerala and Alhind Air. These airlines are strategically positioned to address regional and Gulf market demand while contributing to Kerala’s economic and cultural ties with its diaspora.

Air Kerala: A Dream Realized

Air Kerala, headquartered in Kochi, is poised to take flight by mid-2025. The airline, backed by a group of Dubai-based Malayali entrepreneurs, is reviving a dream that originated in 2005 as a government-led initiative but was stalled due to regulatory hurdles.

With its fleet of ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft, Air Kerala aims to connect smaller cities and towns across Kerala and southern India. The first aircraft is expected to arrive by March or April 2025, enabling operations shortly after.

The airline’s primary hubs will include Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kannur, with plans to launch international operations targeting the Gulf by 2026. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has pledged government support, underscoring the state’s commitment to enhancing aviation connectivity.

Alhind Air: Kozhikode Takes Flight

Kozhikode-based Alhind Air, promoted by the Alhind Group, is another major addition to India’s aviation map. With a turnover of ₹20,000 crore and over 130 offices globally, the Alhind Group brings significant experience and resources to its airline venture.

Alhind Air plans to launch commercial operations by mid-2025, beginning with two ATR 72-600 aircraft and scaling up to seven within its first year. Kochi will serve as the airline’s initial hub, with plans to expand its network to include Thiruvananthapuram, Calicut, and other key cities in South India.

In its first phase, the airline will focus on short-haul regional routes, connecting tier-2 and tier-3 cities like Pondicherry, Madurai, and Mangalore. International expansion, particularly to the Gulf, is on the horizon within 18 months of its launch. By 2027, Alhind Air aims to add narrow-body aircraft, enabling medium-haul international flights.

A New Era for Indian Aviation

The launch of Shankh Air, Air Kerala, and Alhind Air marks a significant milestone for Indian aviation, addressing the growing demand for better regional and international connectivity. Uttar Pradesh will see its first airline take to the skies, while Kerala’s aviation sector will expand to serve its large expatriate population and promote intrastate connectivity.

These airlines are expected to bring competitive pricing, improved service quality, and more route options, benefiting passengers across the board. As India’s aviation landscape evolves, 2025 is set to be a landmark year for accessibility and growth, paving the way for a vibrant future in the skies.