Akasa Air Plans Kuwait, Saudi Arabia Flights by October-End

Akasa Air to Expand International Operations, Targets Kuwait, Riyadh, and Jeddah by October-End

Akasa Air, a nearly two-year-old airline, is gearing up for significant international expansion, eyeing flights to Kuwait, Riyadh, and Jeddah by the end of October this year. The move follows the recent launch of its maiden overseas service to Doha this month, signaling the company’s bullish outlook on overseas operations. Speaking to PTI in an interview on Thursday, Akasa Air Founder and CEO Vinay Dube expressed excitement about the potential of international flying, emphasizing the opportunities presented by the Indian market.

With a fleet comprising 24 Boeing 737 Max aircraft, Akasa Air is set to commence its international operations on March 28 with flights connecting Mumbai and Doha, operating four times a week. Dube outlined the airline’s ambitious plans, stating that it has secured traffic rights for Kuwait, Riyadh, and Jeddah, all slated for launch by the end of the IATA summer season. Beyond these initial destinations, Akasa Air aims to expand its footprint across Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent rapidly.

Dube highlighted the airline’s agile approach, aiming to achieve in two years what took other carriers decades in terms of international expansion. However, he acknowledged challenges, particularly regarding approvals from foreign governments and slot allocations at international airports. The IATA summer season, running from late March to late October, sets the timeframe for these plans.

Addressing delays in filing the airline’s international flight schedule, Dube cited the necessity of approvals from foreign governments and the subsequent slot allocations at foreign airports. He noted that some governments may take longer to provide necessary approvals, contributing to operational delays.

Riyadh and Jeddah, key cities in Saudi Arabia, feature prominently in Akasa Air’s expansion strategy. The airline has ambitious growth plans, with orders for 226 Boeing aircraft, of which 24 have already been delivered. While Dube refrained from providing specific guidance on aircraft deliveries, he emphasized ongoing discussions with Boeing to ensure alignment with the airline’s expectations.

Despite the competitive landscape, Akasa Air remains focused on building a robust airline, rather than tracking market share. Dube emphasized the airline’s financial stability and its long-term vision to rank among the world’s top 30 airlines by 2030.

Operated by SNV Aviation Pvt Ltd, Akasa Air commenced commercial flights on August 7, 2022. In the upcoming summer schedule, spanning from March 31 to October 26 this year, the airline plans to increase its weekly domestic departures by 14.30 percent, totaling 903 flights per week.