New airlines to fly in Indian Sky

It is raining airlines now in India. After Tata son’s JVs with Singapore Airlines and AirAsia, smaller players are now aiming for the Indian Sky too. The aviation ministry headed by Ashok Gajapathi Raju has given thumbs up to new six new airlines. Out of six, government has given license to four companies, which had sought permits for launching scheduled, private or charter air operations.

AirAsia India, Ligare Aviation Limited, Quickjet Cargo Airlines, and LEPL projects limited have been granted the Air Operator Permit (AOP) or flying license. Tata-SIA Airlines Limited and Air Pegasus Limited are still in pending cases. While AirAsia has started its operations, Tata-SIA Airlines Limited is a 51: 49 joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, has announced plans to launch flights by September end or October.

Directorate general of civil Aviation (DGCA) is in the process of examining Tata-SIA application. Two other airlines, Air carnival and Zav Airways, have been granted the initial No objection certificate (NOC) by civil aviation industry to start scheduled regional services. Air Carnival proposes to operate in Southern Region, Zav Airways would fly in northeastern and eastern regions. Government has also granted NOC to AirOne Aviation, Zexus Air Limited, Premier Air, and Turbo Megha.

Getting an NOC is the first step towards launching flight operations. Then airline companies have to then apply to DGCA for the AOP, complete all necessary requirements and formalities, and satisfy the aviation regulator of their capability to launch flight operations. With so many Industries entering in India for their Operations, government is planning to connect India to almost all destinations of the world. This will increase number of airports in the country and infrastructure will improve. Hotels and FMCG business will pick up scale and more employment will be created in Aviation sector and other sectors. Country economy will grow and foreign countries will expand their business in India because of direct route connections.