The Centre has cleared three new airlines to begin preparations for operations, aiming to boost competition in India’s fast-growing aviation market. Shankh Air, Al Hind Air, and FlyExpress have received no-objection certificates from the civil aviation ministry.
The approvals come amid recent operational disruptions at IndiGo and growing concerns over the sector’s heavy dependence on a few carriers. Officials believe new entrants will expand passenger choices and strengthen the domestic aviation ecosystem.
India currently has only nine scheduled domestic airlines. The count fell further in October after regional carrier Fly Big suspended operations. Despite rising passenger demand, the market remains highly concentrated.
IndiGo and the Air India Group together control over 90 percent of domestic market share. IndiGo alone accounts for more than 65 percent, highlighting limited competition.
Al Hind Air is promoted by the Kerala-based Alhind Group, which already operates in travel services. FlyExpress plans to enter the domestic market to tap strong demand. Shankh Air, which secured its NOC earlier, targets a 2026 launch. All three airlines must still complete regulatory, fleet, and operational requirements before flying.
Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu confirmed the approvals in a social media post. He said the government wants more airlines to support sector growth. He also cited initiatives like the UDAN scheme, which aims to improve regional air connectivity.
