Air Kerala, a new low-cost carrier, will begin operating domestic flights in the first quarter of next year. The airline has received a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Civil Aviation of India.
The initiative to launch Air Kerala was spearheaded by Zettfly Aviation, chaired by Afi Ahmed, the owner of the UAE-based tour operator Smart Travels. The primary goal of the new low-cost carrier is to offer affordable flights between Kerala and South India, as well as to destinations in the Middle East, primarily the UAE.
Initially, Air Kerala’s fleet will consist of three ATR 72-600 aircraft, with plans to expand to 20 aircraft in the future. The airline’s initial funding will range from $7.1 to $11.9 million, with the amount set to increase fivefold as the carrier adds international routes to its network.
According to Afi Ahmed, the unique advantages of the new airline will be its ultra-budget model and punctuality.
Experts from consulting firm Capa India predict that domestic air travel in India will grow by 6-8% annually, while international travel is expected to grow at an annual rate of 9-11%.
