FA Airlines Set to Acquire India’s flybig, Aiming for Fleet Expansion

FA Airlines, a Mumbai-based company, is on track to acquire regional carrier flybig, according to a recent report from India’s Economic Times. The provisional merger agreement between the two companies aims to significantly expand flybig’s current fleet from three to approximately 20 aircraft.

Established in June 2022, FA Airlines Private Limited has been actively engaging in the aviation sector with a paid-up capital of INR 1 million (approximately USD 12,000). The company is directed by Santosh Bhartiya and Fauzia Arshi, the latter of whom is also named as the managing director according to the Economic Times report. Both Bhartiya and Arshi hold directorships in several other ventures including Mediaman Entertainment Enterprises Private Limited and Daily Multimedia Limited, indicating their broad involvement in various sectors including media and entertainment.

Fauzia Arshi’s profile on LinkedIn describes her as one of India’s youngest entrepreneurs who has significantly impacted the corporate landscape. Her current focus is advancing her projects within the aviation industry, aligning with the strategic move to expand flybig’s operations.

flybig, which began operations at the end of 2020, initially served tier-two Indian cities with its ATR72-500 aircraft. However, the airline faced operational challenges last year, leading to the suspension of flights in October and the repossession of several aircraft. Since then, flybig has shifted its focus to operating DHC-6-400 aircraft, with three currently in service and a fourth expected to be delivered soon. According to ch-aviation PRO airlines data, flybig presently operates routes to eight airports across India.

This acquisition by FA Airlines represents a pivotal development in flybig’s strategy, potentially stabilizing its operations and positioning it for future growth within India’s regional aviation market. Details of the merger are still unfolding, and both FA Airlines and flybig have been contacted for comments regarding the deal.