India’s newest airline, Shankh Air, has moved one step closer to its launch with approval from the Civil Aviation Ministry. This marks a significant milestone for the airline, which aims to be Uttar Pradesh’s first scheduled carrier, establishing operational hubs in Lucknow and Noida.
Before it can officially commence flight services, Shankh Air will need clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). According to the airline’s official website, it plans to offer a wide network of routes connecting major cities across India, with a focus on underserved regions that lack direct flight options. The airline intends to launch full-service operations, providing twin-class travel on new-generation Boeing aircraft.
The Civil Aviation Ministry, in its approval letter, emphasized that Shankh Air must adhere to relevant regulations, including those from the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The No Objection Certificate (NOC) granted to Shankh Air is valid for three years.
Boosting Regional Connectivity
The arrival of Shankh Air is expected to significantly enhance regional air travel within India, particularly in regions that have limited connectivity. By focusing on both interstate and intrastate routes, the airline has the potential to transform mobility in Uttar Pradesh and beyond, providing a much-needed boost to underserved areas.
This development coincides with an optimistic outlook for India’s aviation sector. Indian airlines are projected to capture nearly 50% of the country’s international air passenger traffic by the fiscal year 2027-28, according to CRISIL Ratings. The report predicts that the share of Indian airlines in international traffic will increase by 700 basis points from 43% in the previous fiscal year, driven by new aircraft acquisitions and expanded international routes. The rising market share is further supported by Indian carriers’ strong domestic connectivity, which gives them an edge over foreign competitors.
Post-Pandemic Surge in International Travel
In the post-pandemic era, there has been a notable surge in international leisure travel among Indian citizens, fueled by increasing disposable incomes, relaxed visa policies, and expanded airport infrastructure. Manish Gupta from CRISIL Ratings commented on the trend, stating, “Increasing disposable incomes, easing visa requirements, growing number of airports, and enhanced air travel connectivity are boosting international travel.”
As Shankh Air prepares for its official debut, its success will be closely watched, with the potential to reshape regional air connectivity in India and support the broader growth of the nation’s aviation sector.
Key Points:
- Shankh Air, India’s newest airline, receives approval from the Civil Aviation Ministry to begin operations.
- The airline must obtain further clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) before launching flights.
- Shankh Air will be the first scheduled airline based in Uttar Pradesh, with hubs in Lucknow and Noida.
- The airline plans to operate a network of interstate and intrastate routes, using new-generation Boeing aircraft.
- The Ministry’s approval includes compliance with FDI and SEBI regulations, with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) valid for three years.
- Shankh Air is expected to boost regional connectivity, particularly in underserved areas.
- Indian airlines are projected to handle 50% of international passenger traffic by FY2027-28.
- Post-pandemic, there has been a rise in international leisure travel, driven by increased disposable incomes and relaxed visa requirements.
