Akasa Air, India’s fast-rising low-cost carrier, has celebrated a remarkable milestone of serving over 19 million passengers in just three years since its launch in August 2022. This achievement illustrates the airline’s rapid growth, operational excellence, and expanding footprint in India’s competitive aviation sector, positioning it as a major player with global ambitions.
Key Highlights of Akasa Air’s Journey and Growth:
Within three years, Akasa has transported 19 million passengers, with an impressive 8 million carried in the most recent 12 months alone, supported by an industry-leading average load factor exceeding 87%.
The airline operates a robust fleet of 30 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, connecting 28 destinations including 23 domestic cities and 5 international locations, while logging over 100,000 total departures and maintaining the lowest cancellation rate in Indian aviation.
Akasa has expanded beyond passenger operations to cargo logistics, handling more than 131,000 tonnes of cargo and executing over 3,800 international flights, underscoring its overall operational strength.
Strategic Vision and Financial Performance:
Akasa Air has achieved sustained revenue growth of 49% year-on-year in financial year 2025, driven by network optimization, increased unit profitability, and a 48% expansion in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs). The airline’s financial resilience is further bolstered by fresh capital infusion from institutional investors (pending regulatory approvals), which will enable aggressive yet disciplined expansion strategies.
Founder and CEO Vinay Dube credits this success to a balanced approach combining speed, discipline, safety, and customer empathy. He emphasizes that the airline is building a generational institution with a long-term view of becoming one of the world’s top 30 airlines by the end of the decade.
Network Expansion and Global Ambitions:
Akasa Air is deepening its presence in key domestic hubs such as Delhi, while gearing up to leverage upcoming infrastructure like Navi Mumbai and Noida International Airports. In the international arena, it plans to expand into SAARC and ASEAN regions within the next few years, complementing its current international footprint.
In March 2025, it activated its first codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways to broaden connectivity and customer choice, signaling its intent to become a truly global carrier.
Customer-Centric Innovation and Inclusivity:
True to its people-first philosophy, Akasa has introduced a variety of thoughtful innovations including gender-neutral uniforms, performance sneakers for employees, and inclusive in-flight services like Braille safety and menu cards. Its pet travel service "Pets on Akasa" has catered to over 7,100 animals, highlighting the airline’s commitment to differentiated and compassionate customer service.
In-flight offerings have also been raised through Café Akasa, which has served over 6.4 million meals including healthy options and festive menus, setting new standards for comfort and quality in Indian aviation.
Future Outlook:
As Akasa Air navigates the next phase of its journey, it remains focused on building a scalable, operationally excellent, and financially sustainable business model. The airline aims to finish the current year with a fleet exceeding 30 aircraft and grow Available Seat Kilometres by over 30%, reinforcing its place in India’s dynamic aviation market.
With a strong workforce of over 4,700 ‘Akasians’, continuous investment in technology, and a commitment to operational efficiency, Akasa is well poised to maintain its growth momentum and expand its global footprint.
Conclusion:
Akasa Air’s celebration of 19 million passengers in just three years is testimony to its rapid yet disciplined rise as a formidable airline. It reflects the success of its vision to blend ambition with empathy and operational discipline, establishing it as a future-ready carrier with a global outlook. With steady growth, deepening market presence, and innovative customer-focused initiatives, Akasa Air is set to shape the next chapter of Indian and regional aviation.
Source: Akasa Air official press releases, Economic Times, CNBC-TV18, BW Travel
