Who Owns Air Kerala and Lesser-Known Facts

India is preparing to welcome a new airline with the approval of budget carrier Air Kerala by the Civil Aviation Ministry.

Led by UAE-based businessman Afi Ahmed, Air Kerala emerges as a regional airline initiative backed by the Kerala government. Based in Kochi, Air Kerala is positioned as a low-cost carrier aiming to commence operations within a year.

Zettfly Aviation, the project’s founders, assert readiness to begin domestic flights pending the acquisition of an air operator’s certificate (AOC) from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA).

Having recently secured a no-objection certificate (NOC), Air Kerala targets obtaining its AOC within eight to nine months. Ahmed plans to launch services by the first quarter of CY 2025, starting with three ATR-72 aircraft and an initial investment ranging from ₹60-100 crore.

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The airline is actively appointing key personnel as it progresses towards obtaining its air operator permit. Focusing strategically on regional connectivity, Air Kerala plans to serve routes within Kerala and connect cities such as Salem, Madurai, Hubli, and Pune based on demand.

The airline has formulated an extensive connectivity blueprint covering 53 airports and anticipates hiring 350 employees in its first operational year.

Air Kerala’s operational approach aligns with India’s ‘Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik’ (UDAN) scheme, emphasizing affordable air travel.

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While its initial phase centers on domestic routes, the airline eyes future international expansion, including potential routes to Dubai once its fleet expands to 20 aircraft.

As Air Kerala prepares to enter India’s competitive aviation sector, its dedication to regional connectivity, cost-efficiency, and ambitious growth plans positions it as a promising addition to the country’s airline industry.