India’s Alhind Air Delays Launch to Mid-2025

Kerala-based start-up Alhind Air has postponed its launch to mid-2025 due to delays in securing an air operator’s certificate (AOC). Initially aiming for a late-2024 debut, the airline now plans to commence operations around June 2025, according to CNBC TV18.

Alhind Air intends to begin with two ATR72-500 aircraft and gradually expand to a fleet of seven ATR turboprops within its first year. Chairman Mohammed Haris Thattarathil has also indicated plans to incorporate Airbus A319-100 and A320 aircraft as the airline scales operations.

The airline aims to tap into India’s growing domestic aviation market by connecting smaller Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities within Kerala to major Tier 1 cities across the country.

Alhind Air is among several start-ups vying to capitalize on India’s expanding air travel sector. Fellow Kerala-based venture Air Kerala is targeting a mid-2025 launch using newer ATR72-600 aircraft, with similar plans to focus on regional connectivity.

Other regional start-ups include Shankh Air in Uttar Pradesh and Jettwings Airways in Assam, both of which also propose to use ATR turboprops to connect underserved cities.

India’s domestic aviation sector is witnessing rapid growth, and regional connectivity remains a key focus for new entrants. With its emphasis on short-haul routes and Tier 2 and 3 city connections, Alhind Air aims to meet the increasing demand for affordable and accessible air travel.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com