Air India Express Aims for 40% Increase in Flight Operations Next Fiscal Year

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Expansion Plans and New Destinations

Low-cost carrier Air India Express is setting its sights on significantly expanding its operations in the next financial year. The airline, a subsidiary of the Tata Group, is looking to increase its number of flights by 40%. Additionally, Air India Express plans to commence services to new international destinations, including Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. This development comes as the airline is in the midst of integrating AirAsia India, now known as AIX Connect, into its operations.

Fleet Expansion and Acquisition of Boeing 737 Max Aircraft

Air India Express Plans 40% More Flights

As part of its expansion strategy, Air India Express is focused on growing its fleet. The airline expects to complete the acquisition of 50 white tail Boeing 737 Max aircraft by December of this year. A significant portion of these planes, originally intended for another carrier but canceled due to the pandemic, have already been integrated into the airline’s fleet, with at least 13 of the 50 planes currently operational. This addition is expected to support the airline’s ambitious plans for the next fiscal year.

Current Operations and Future Focus

Currently, Air India Express operates 350 daily flights with a fleet of 69 planes. The airline’s future strategy includes a stronger emphasis on consolidating its domestic operations, with plans to introduce services to a few new international routes. The introduction of more flights and services to new destinations is scheduled for the upcoming summer and winter schedules.

Staffing and Merger Developments

With around 1,300 pilots, including 400 from AirAsia India and an additional 400 under training, Air India Express is well-prepared for its expansion. The merger of AIX Connect with Air India Express is anticipated to be completed by the second quarter of the next financial year, further streamlining operations.

Once the merger is finalized, all AIX Connect planes will operate under the Air India Express air operator permit, with three A320neo planes of AIX Connect already included. This strategic move aims to enhance the airline’s operational efficiency and service offerings, positioning Air India Express for significant growth in the aviation sector.

How much is Air India Express planning to increase its flights next fiscal year?

Air India Express plans to operate 40% more flights in the next financial year, significantly expanding its current operations.

What new international destinations will Air India Express start services to?

The airline plans to start services to Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, broadening its international route network.

How is Air India Express expanding its fleet?

The airline expects to complete the acquisition of 50 white tail Boeing 737 Max aircraft by December this year, which will support its expansion plans.

What are white tail aircraft?

White tail aircraft are planes that were originally manufactured for another carrier but were not delivered, often due to cancellation. Air India Express is acquiring these planes, which were initially intended for a different airline.

Will Air India Express add many new domestic destinations?

The airline will focus more on consolidating its operations on existing domestic routes rather than adding many new domestic destinations.

When do the summer and winter schedules start?

The summer schedule starts from late March and lasts until late October, while the winter schedule commences from late October and ends in late March.

How many pilots does Air India Express currently have?

Air India Express currently has around 1,300 pilots, including 400 from AirAsia India, with an additional 400 pilots under training.

What is the status of the merger between AIX Connect and Air India Express?

The merger is expected to be completed by the second quarter of the next financial year, at which point all AIX Connect planes will operate under the Air India Express air operator permit.

Will the merger affect the airline's operations?

The merger is aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. Once complete, it will allow for a unified operation under the Air India Express brand.