India’s Newest Airline Fly91 Gears Up for Launch with First ATR72-600 Aircraft

Fly91, an emerging player in the Indian aviation sector, has marked a significant milestone by taking delivery of its first aircraft, an ATR72-600, registered as VT-NUT (msn 1385). The Goa-based startup airline made this announcement on its social media channels last week, signaling a major step towards its operational debut. The aircraft has been leased from VMAN Aero Services and will remain under an operating lease until December 31, 2028.

Manoj Chacko, CEO of Fly91, expressed immense pride in the arrival of VT-NUT. This 7.13-year-old turboprop, built by ATR – Avions de Transport Régional, has a storied history, having previously flown for Indian carriers TruJet and flybig. Fly91’s acquisition of this aircraft aligns with its broader fleet strategy. According to recent reports by ch-aviation, the airline has finalized a deal with DAE Capital to fund its initial pair of ATRs. Chacko’s vision includes expanding Fly91’s fleet to six such aircraft within the first half-year of operations.

Fly91 is the brainchild of a joint venture between veteran Indian airline executive Manoj Chacko and Mumbai’s Convergent Finance, a private equity firm. The airline’s business model focuses on enhancing connectivity between smaller cities across India, targeting particularly underserved and unserved airports. This approach aims to bridge the gap in last-mile connectivity within the country’s aviation network.

Chacko, in a conversation with ch-aviation, revealed that Fly91 is close to obtaining its air operator’s certificate, anticipating its issuance in the coming weeks. This development paves the way for the airline to commence its services soon.

Currently stationed at Hyderabad International for maintenance, the delivery of VT-NUT represents a crucial step forward for Fly91 as it prepares to enter the competitive landscape of Indian aviation with a unique market proposition. The airline’s entry is keenly watched by industry observers, given its potential to redefine regional air travel in India.