17 Apr 2025
#3 April 2025: India Aviation Newsletter
Air Kerala Opens Headquarters in Kochi Ahead of Inaugural Flight
Air Kerala officially opened its head office in Kochi on 15 April, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s pre-launch phase. The new facility will house over 200 employees, as the airline prepares for its first domestic flight in June, operating 76-seater ATR aircraft. Air Kerala aims to recruit 750+ staff in 2025 and has ambitions to launch UAE services by 2027, signalling long-term plans to become a regional and international player.
Akasa Air Enters Bihar, Launches Flights from Darbhanga
Akasa Air has expanded its domestic network by launching operations from Darbhanga, its 28th destination, with daily through-flights from Hyderabad via Delhi (no aircraft change). This move strengthens connectivity to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, aligning with Akasa’s mission to serve underserved markets. CEO Vinay Dube highlighted the launch as a moment of pride, supported by India’s Civil Aviation Ministry, and as a key step in driving economic and social growth in Bihar.
IndiGo Launches Daily Flights from Mumbai and Kannur to Fujairah
IndiGo has introduced daily direct flights to Fujairah, its fifth UAE destination and 41st international route. Departing from Mumbai and Kannur, the service includes dedicated bus connections to Dubai and Sharjah. IndiGo’s Vinay Malhotra noted that Fujairah, with its blend of natural beauty and economic significance, presents new opportunities in tourism, trade, and logistics, and aligns with the airline’s Middle East expansion strategy.
Acumen’s Take
On Air Kerala’s Kochi HQ Launch
Air Kerala’s operational setup in Kochi reflects a focused regional growth strategy with ambitions to scale internationally. With ATR aircraft for initial domestic ops and UAE routes planned by 2027, the airline is adopting a measured, scalable model. Acumen views this as a promising entry, especially given Kerala’s high outbound travel demand and large diaspora base.
On Akasa Air’s Entry into Bihar
Akasa’s move into Darbhanga marks a strategic expansion into India’s underserved air markets, aligning with government efforts to improve regional connectivity. The use of through-flights without aircraft change offers passenger convenience, and Acumen sees this as a model for efficient Tier 2 integration in India’s aviation ecosystem.
On IndiGo’s Fujairah Launch
IndiGo’s launch of daily flights to Fujairah reflects continued Middle East expansion, tapping into both tourism and trade potential. The inclusion of feeder bus services enhances accessibility, positioning the airline as a comprehensive regional connector. Acumen sees this route as part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties between India and the UAE’s lesser-served regions.
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