India&rsquo;s civil aviation sector is set to expand further after the Ministry of Civil Aviation granted approval to two new airlines, Al Hind Air and FlyExpress. Both carriers received their No Objection Certificates on Wednesday and are expected to begin flight operations next year.
In addition to these two airlines, Uttar Pradesh-based Shankh Air has already secured its NOC and is likely to start services in 2026. The approvals come as part of the government&rsquo;s broader push to increase competition and capacity in one of the world&rsquo;s fastest-growing domestic aviation markets.
Currently, IndiGo and the Air India Group together command over 90 per cent of India&rsquo;s domestic market share. There are nine operational domestic airlines at present, following the suspension of scheduled services by regional carrier Fly Big in October.
Al Hind Air is being promoted by the Kerala-based Alhind Group and is planned as a regional commuter airline. It will initially operate ATR 72-600 aircraft, focusing on domestic routes to strengthen regional connectivity. The airline has also outlined plans to expand to international destinations in the future. Its main hub will be Kochi, where it is working closely with Cochin International Airport Limited to establish operations.
While limited details have emerged about FlyExpress so far, it is also expected to play a role in improving regional air connectivity across the country.
The approvals come amid growing concerns over a duopoly in India&rsquo;s aviation sector, particularly after recent large-scale operational disruptions faced by IndiGo, which holds more than 65 per cent market share. The government has reiterated its intent to encourage new airlines through supportive policies and regional connectivity initiatives such as the UDAN scheme, which has enabled smaller carriers to enter the market.
With new entrants preparing for take-off, India&rsquo;s aviation landscape is poised for greater competition, improved connectivity, and more options for passengers.

Al Hind Air and FlyExpress cleared to launch as India expands aviation market

Two New Airlines Get Nod to Fly in India

Al Hind Air and FlyExpress cleared to launch as India expands aviation market

December 24, 2025 | 22:07 IST