New Delhi, December 24, 2025
India’s aviation landscape is about to undergo a significant upheaval as the government approves the admission of three new airline operators Al Hind Air, FlyExpress, and Shankh Air. The licenses represent a substantial regulatory shift aimed at increasing competition in a market that has grown swiftly but is still largely concentrated among a few dominant carriers.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to Al Hind Air and FlyExpress, allowing them to go closer to starting commercial flights. Shankh Air, which had previously obtained its NOC, is now preparing for operational readiness, with a targeted takeoff in 2026.
The issue of NOCs marks the first significant regulatory milestone for any new airline. These clearances enable enterprises to complete the final stages of certification, fleet planning, and infrastructure development before applying for an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
In recent years, India’s domestic aviation sector has become more concentrated, with IndiGo and the Air India Group owning the vast bulk of passenger travel. This dominance has generated worries among policymakers, particularly after recent operational breakdowns revealed vulnerabilities associated with over-reliance on a small number of carriers.
Against this backdrop, the government’s decision to encourage new entrants reflects a clear intent to diversify the airline ecosystem, improve service resilience, and offer travelers more choice. The approvals also align with broader efforts to support sustainable growth in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
Profiles of New Airlines
Al Hind Air
Promoted by the Kerala-based Alhind Group, is set to launch as a domestic carrier with a focus on regional connections. With its NOC in place, the airline will now work on achieving DGCA safety, operations, and staffing standards.
FlyExpress
Is backed by investors with logistics and cargo experience, is portraying itself as an airline that can improve connectivity on underserved domestic routes. The airline is currently pursuing fleet acquisition and operational approvals.
Shankh Air
Based in Uttar Pradesh, is the most advanced of the three in terms of regulatory development. Having having secured its NOC, the airline expects to launch commercially in early 2026, gradually expanding its route network and aircraft size.
Not Just New Airlines
The clearance of the three carriers comes at a time when India’s aviation sector is under increasing strain from expanding passenger volumes, restricted aircraft availability, and infrastructure constraints. Rather than reacting to potential delays, policymakers appear to be planning ahead by increasing the number of operators capable of serving domestic routes.
The No Objection Certificates (NOCs) granted to Al Hind Air and FlyExpress, together with the earlier clearance granted to Shankh Air, enable these companies to proceed to the final round of regulatory clearances. The next important step will be to obtain an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The impact on India’s aviation sector
Industry experts feel that the introduction of Al Hind Air, FlyExpress, and Shankh Air could assist reduce market concentration, improve route availability, and increase passenger choice, particularly on regional and secondary city routes. The decision might also help government projects like regional air connectivity programs, which aim to expand air travel to more areas of the country.
If the planned timetables are followed, 2026 might be a watershed moment in Indian aviation, ushering in a more competitive and balanced market structure that will benefit both travelers and the economy in the long run.
“Expanding the number of airline operators is key to meeting India’s rising air travel demand”.
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