Air Kerala, an exciting new airline backed by the Kerala state government, is all set to take off and change the way people travel within India and beyond. The airline's primary mission is to connect small and medium-sized cities in South India with major hubs, eventually offering direct flights to international destinations in the Middle East, especially for Kerala's large expatriate community.
The long wait for the launch of Air Kerala should be around June 2025 if everything goes according to plan, with the first flight, a maiden flight, to depart from Kannur International Airport (KIAL). In July 2024, the airline got an NOC required by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to launch its operations. Now, it is on the finish line of getting an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Air Kerala's journey towards the launch date will include the following major milestones:
July 2024: NOC given by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
April 2025: The first aircraft is delivered.
June 2025: Launch the inaugural flight from Kannur.
2026: The fleet will be expanded as planned, with six aircraft.
Air Kerala's primary focus on the local domestic sector will be establishing a network of flights, specifically between the cities nestled within a 90-minute flight distance from Kannur. The airline's primary goal is to expand air accessibility in South India, which is now underserved and without a direct flight. Initially, it will operate flights from Kannur to cities such as Mysuru, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Kochi, Chennai, and Hyderabad in South India.
The airliner will launch its operations by leasing ATR 72-600, a type of turboprop aeroplane well-suited for short-distance, regional flights. These aeroplanes are famous for their low fuel usage and ability to land in smaller airports, extracting the most from them. Thus, they are ranked among the best that can be recommended to the airline in its starting period.
In fact, the expansion plan is not just for the Indian domestic routes but also for international expansion. The airline aims to accommodate the large Keralite diaspora in the Middle East, where millions of expatriates live. Within its long-term strategy, the airline plans to connect to the most popular Middle East destinations, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Muscat.
At first, however, some regulatory prerequisites must be passed before the airline enters the new market. According to Indian aviation regulations, an airline should own at least 20 aircraft to be eligible for international flights. Still, the recent reforms have made it easier for the airlines to expand step by step. Air Kerala plans to satisfy this condition by increasing the number of its fleets as the company grows. Air Kerala expects that by 2026-2027, the company will be capable of having Airbus A320neo or Boeing 737 MAX aircraft for medium-haul and international flights.
Through its constantly evolving fleet, Air Kerala looks forward to suitably meeting the increasing demand for domestic and international services. The first year of flying hours per week (2025-2026) will be used for aircraft such as the ATR 72-600 turboprop, which is no less than the regional flights of South India because they are designed to facilitate such flights. These planes use a minimum of fuel and do not cost much to operate, ensuring safe and reliable short-distance flights.
As for the second phase, which will launch in 2026-2027, the airline aims to procure wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A320neo and Boeing737 MAX for medium and long routes overseas. All these new-age jetliners will enable Air Kerala to see its wings expand internationally to the Middle East and perhaps parts of Asia.
One company, Air Kerala, is a joint venture between private investors and the Kerala state government. The government, which is focused on bringing about inter-regional connectivity and enhancing the overall lives of its diaspora, has supported the airline, providing financial support and strategic assistance. A key airline partner is the Kannur International Airport-KIAL, which will serve as the primary hub.
The air travel market is still growing, and the DGCA approval is needed soon before the airline gets an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). The commencement of operations is expected to be in the first quarter of 2025. If an AOC is issued, Air Kerala will become operational, and the people of Kerala can travel at a discount and even beyond.
The introduction of Air Kerala in 2025 will shake the air travel scenario of South India. The area was deprived of accessible flight options, especially for the underserved Tier II and III cities. Air Kerala's regional routes will offer faster flights between Kerala and other major South Indian cities, making the passenger's trip direct and convenient.
This regional connection is necessary for businesses, students, and families who constantly need to travel between these cities. Air Kerala's expansion to international markets will also mean a more convenient way for the Keralite diaspora to fly to and from Kerala and the Middle East, where the largest percentage of the state's population lives.
If Air Kerala is realised as a cheap and affordable carrier, it will take home a major portion of the Indian aviation industry. The airliner will be a low-cost operator like Air India Express, hence giving passengers a variety of cheaper choices for both domestic and international flights.
Air Kerala will focus on providing affordable air travel without compromising quality as a low-cost carrier. Passengers can expect modern, comfortable aircraft with basic amenities like onboard snacks, beverages, and entertainment options. The airline's ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft fleet will be ideal for short regional flights, with convenient seating and a friendly crew.
For its international services, Air Kerala plans to offer a higher level of comfort with its Airbus A320neo or Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, providing passengers more space and comfort on longer flights. These planes will have modern amenities to ensure a pleasant flying experience.
Air Kerala's journey is just beginning, but the airline has ambitious plans that could transform the aviation landscape in South India. By focusing on regional connectivity and eventually expanding to international markets, Air Kerala will make air travel more accessible and affordable for everyone.
With strong backing from the Kerala state government, a clear focus on its passengers' needs, and a fleet that will grow over time, Air Kerala is poised to become a major player in India's aviation industry. The airline's entry into the market will provide new opportunities for travellers and strengthen connections within South India and the Middle East.
As the launch date approaches, there is much to look forward to with Air Kerala. Air Kerala could soon be your go-to airline for domestic and international travel if you are in South India or a Keralite diaspora member. Watch for updates as the airline prepares for its inaugural flight in June 2025.
1. When will Air Kerala start flying?
Air Kerala will start flying in June 2025. The first flight will leave from Kannur International Airport.
2. Who started Air Kerala?
Air Kerala is a partnership between the Kerala state government and private investors. The Kerala government has helped support the airline.
3. What places will Air Kerala fly to?
At first, Air Kerala will fly to cities in South India like Kannur, Mysuru, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Kochi, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Later, it will expand to international flights, especially to cities in the Middle East, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Muscat.
4. Will Air Kerala have cheap flights?
Yes, Air Kerala aims to offer affordable flights. It will be a low-cost airline, making travel cheaper. If you want to find even cheaper flights, check Flightsmojo for great deals!
5. Is Air Kerala only for flights within India or will it go abroad too?
Air Kerala will start with flights within India. Later, by 2026-2027, it plans to fly to international destinations like the Middle East.
6. What type of planes will Air Kerala use?
In the beginning, Air Kerala will use ATR 72-600 turboprop planes, which are good for short flights. Later, the airline plans to use bigger planes like the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX for longer flights.
7. Will Air Kerala fly to international destinations?
Yes, Air Kerala plans to fly internationally, especially to the Middle East, where many people from Kerala live. This will start around 2026-2027.
8. Are Air Kerala’s flights affordable?
Yes, Air Kerala will offer affordable flights, especially for short trips. You can also find great deals for Air Kerala flights on Flightsmojo!
9. What is the goal of Air Kerala?
The goal of Air Kerala is to connect cities in South India and later expand to international destinations, making travel easier for everyone, especially Keralites living abroad.
10. How can I book a flight with Air Kerala on Flightsmojo?
Once Air Kerala starts flying in 2025, you can book your flights on Flightsmojo and find great deals and cheap flight tickets
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