India’s aviation sector will soon see the launch of a new airline, with Shankh Air, the country’s newest airline, receiving approval from the federal aviation ministry to begin operations.
The airline, however, can commence operations only after getting clearance from India’s civil aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The ministry’s approval letter directed Shankh Air to adhere to all applicable regulations, including those related to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), according to media reports.
The No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued to the airline is valid for three years.
The airline is the first scheduled airline to originate from India’s largest state, Uttar Pradesh, with operational hubs planned for Lucknow and Noida.
Shankh Air is reportedly set to launch services with a fleet of new-generation Boeing 737-800NG aircraft.
According to the company’s website, the airline aims to bridge key cities across India, providing both interstate and intrastate routes.