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Shankh Air, a new airline hailing from Uttar Pradesh, is poised to become the state's first scheduled carrier. This significant development comes after the airline secured approval from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, bringing it one step closer to taking flight. The Ministry's approval letter, however, emphasizes the need for Shankh Air to adhere strictly to regulations pertaining to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and the norms set by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The No Objection Certificate (NOC) granted to the airline has a validity period of three years, providing a window of opportunity for the carrier to establish its operations.
This news comes amidst a landscape of heightened competition within the Indian aviation sector. Air India has recently witnessed a rise in market share, while other established players like SpiceJet and Akasa Air have experienced a decline. The growth in domestic air traffic, however, indicates a positive trend. In August 2024, domestic air traffic saw a year-on-year increase of 5.7 percent, reaching a total of 1.31 crore passengers. This figure, however, represents a slight dip compared to the previous months, highlighting the competitive nature of the market.
Shankh Air's plans include establishing operational hubs in Lucknow and Noida, strategically positioning itself to cater to passengers within the state. The airline's fleet will consist of Boeing 737-800NG aircraft, a popular choice for domestic routes. With its focus on connecting underserved routes, Shankh Air aims to bridge gaps in connectivity and provide convenient air travel options for passengers across the country.
The airline's owner, entrepreneur Sharvan K Vishwakarma, has set an ambitious target to commence operations from the upcoming Noida Airport in October 2025. The timeline suggests a well-defined strategy and commitment to entering the Indian aviation market. As the airline awaits final clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), all eyes are on Shankh Air's potential to disrupt the existing market dynamics and offer a fresh perspective on air travel within India.
Source: Shankh Air cleared for takeoff by aviation ministry, awaits final DGCA approval