New Carrier Shankh Air Eyes March Launch, Targets International Routes By 2029

January 2, 2026 at 12:00 AM•3 min read

Shankh Air, a new domestic carrier, plans to launch operations around March 2026 with an initial Airbus A320 fleet, aiming to boost regional connectivity and begin international

Key Points

1Shankh Air is set to commence domestic airline operations around March 2026, following a No-Objection Certificate from the Union Aviation Ministry.
2The airline will launch with an initial Airbus A320 fleet of three aircraft, with two more planes expected by mid-2026.
3Chairman Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma confirmed plans to begin international flights by 2028 or 2029, focusing on a sustainable domestic foundation first.
4The carrier aims to make air travel affordable for middle-class travelers, challenging the dominance of major Indian airlines.

Shankh Air, a new domestic airline, is preparing to enter India's rapidly growing aviation market. The carrier is scheduled to begin flight operations around March 2026, according to Chairman Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma. This launch is set for the first quarter of 2026.

Shankh Air is one of three new carriers recently approved by the Union Aviation Ministry. The ministry granted a crucial No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to Shankh Air, alongside Al Hind Air and FlyExpress. This move is seen as a push to increase India aviation market competition.

Initial Fleet and Domestic Strategy

The airline will start with an initial fleet of three Airbus A320 aircraft. These planes are currently reported to be based in Bulgaria. The company plans a quick fleet expansion strategy to ensure long-term sustainability. Two additional aircraft are expected to join the fleet by July or August.

Chairman Vishwakarma emphasized the airline's mission. Shankh Air aims to make affordable air travel accessible to the public. The focus is on serving middle-class travelers and positioning air travel as a routine mode of transport. The airline will concentrate on improving regional and interstate connectivity in its initial phase.

Targeting Market Competition

The entry of new players like Shankh Air comes at a critical time. The Indian domestic market is heavily dominated by a few major players. The Civil Aviation Ministry has actively encouraged new ventures. This is intended to provide more choices for Indian flyers. Increased competition can help stabilize fares and improve service quality.

The new carriers could challenge the market dominance of IndiGo and the Air India Group.
Shankh Air's strategy includes stable pricing, even during festive seasons.
The airline plans to connect major cities like Lucknow to Delhi and Mumbai.

Long-Term Vision: International Flights

Looking beyond the domestic market, Shankh Air has ambitious long-term goals. The airline plans to begin international flights 2029. The target window for launching these international operations is 2028 or 2029.

Vishwakarma stated that fleet growth is vital for survival in the competitive sector. The airline will focus on building a stable domestic network first. This phased approach is common for new airlines. It allows them to secure market share and build operational experience.

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New airlines require final clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This Air Operator Certificate (AOC) is the next regulatory step. The successful launch of Shankh Air will significantly impact the domestic travel landscape. It will offer passengers a new option for regional travel on the Airbus A320 fleet.

The airline's founder, Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma, is an entrepreneur from a non-aviation background. His vision is to democratize air travel. This focus on accessibility and regional routes aligns with government initiatives like UDAN.