Shankh Air To Launch Affordable Domestic Flights In January

India’s aviation sector is preparing to welcome Shankh Air, a new entrant aiming to make air travel more accessible for middle-class passengers and first-time flyers. Headquartered in Uttar Pradesh, the airline has secured regulatory approvals and is ready to commence operations this month. With a focus on affordability and regional connectivity, Shankh Air seeks to challenge the dominance of existing players while boosting tourism and employment opportunities in the state.  

Key highlights from the announcement include  

• Shankh Air will launch operations in January 2026 with three leased Airbus A320 aircraft.  
• Initial routes will connect Lucknow to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and key Uttar Pradesh cities including Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur.  
• The airline promises stable fares without festive price hikes, targeting middle-class travelers.  
• Founder Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma, once a tempo driver in Kanpur, has transformed his journey into a pioneering aviation venture.  
• The carrier has received a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Union Civil Aviation Ministry, a crucial regulatory milestone.  
• Two additional aircraft are expected to join the fleet within 45 days of launch, expanding intra-state and metro connectivity.  
• Shankh Air plans to expand nationwide and begin international operations by 2028–2029.  
• Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjaparu has endorsed the initiative, highlighting its role in breaking the IndiGo-Air India duopoly.  

The launch of Shankh Air represents both an inspiring entrepreneurial story and a significant development in India’s aviation landscape. By prioritizing affordability and regional connectivity, the airline aims to democratize air travel while creating new opportunities for tourism and employment. Its entry signals a more competitive market, offering passengers greater choice and accessibility.  

Sources: The Logical Indian, Free Press Journal, TravelMedia.in, News18, The Indian Bugle