Image source: ATR’s Website
Kerala: The arrival of two new carriers, Air Kerala and Alhind Air, in 2025 is expected to significantly expand Kerala’s aviation industry. These initiatives seek to improve regional connections and offer both domestic and foreign travelers—particularly the considerable foreign population—affordable travel options.
Air Kerala
Background: A long-awaited project by the Kerala government under Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), designed to serve the state’s diaspora, particularly in the Gulf region.
Key Updates: Operated by Zettfly Aviation, Air Kerala recently secured the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) and plans to commence operations by mid-2025.
Fleet & Plans: The airline will start with three ATR 72-600 aircraft, focusing on regional routes, with plans to expand to 20 aircraft for international services. Initial routes could include connecting major cities within Kerala (like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Kannur) and potentially expanding to other South Indian cities.
For international routes, destinations in the UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi), Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Jeddah), and other Gulf countries
Objective: To offer cost-effective flights, filling a critical gap for travelers in Kerala and abroad.
Alhind Air
Background: Promoted by the Alhind Group, a leading travel and tourism provider, Alhind Air aims to provide seamless regional and domestic connectivity.
Launch Details: Set to operate from Kochi, the airline will also launch in mid-2025, beginning with three ATR 72-600 aircraft and scaling up to seven by 2026.
Focus: Alhind Air will cater to passengers within Kerala, South India, and eventually expand its network internationally, initial routes could include connecting Kochi (their hub) with cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, and other major cities in South India.
ATRs are twin-engine turboprop, short-haul regional airliners famous for their low emission as they tend to burn 30 percent less fuel. ATR 72-600 planes can accommodate up to 100 passengers.
Both airlines are expected to:
Boost regional connectivity with affordable and frequent flights.
Create jobs and support Kerala’s growing aviation infrastructure.
Offer foreigners more affordable and direct travel choices, particularly to Gulf nations.
Stay tuned to Aviation Today for more such updates.
