In a bid to enhance its operations and connectivity in the Gulf region, Air India Express is set to increase capacity, particularly to the UAE. The airline also plans to improve accessibility for Gulf travelers by offering more connectivity to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities across India, according to a statement from Aloke Singh, the managing director of Air India Express.
The airline, which operates 105 flights per week between India and the UAE, is considering capacity increases to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE. Singh mentioned the possibility of enhancing services from Kannur, a relatively new point, to meet growing demand. Furthermore, the focus will be on providing better connectivity within different cities across India, beyond the well-served Kerala-Gulf market.
As part of its rationalization program with Air India, the budget carrier recently increased flights to the UAE. Singh explained that certain routes, catering to premium traffic and value-conscious markets, will be served by Air India, while Air India Express will cover thinner markets.
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After the successful privatization of Air India Express and Air India in January 2022, with ownership returning to the Tata group, the two subsidiaries were integrated in March 2023 under the Air India Group.
Looking ahead, Air India Express aims to concentrate on connecting Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India to the UAE and Gulf countries. The airline plans to significantly increase domestic capacity, with a focus on providing seamless travel for passengers from these regions.
To support its expansion plans, the budget carrier is set to hire up to 1,250 pilots and cabin crew. In the past six months, 350 pilots and 550 cabin crew members have been recruited. The recruitment drive will continue in the coming months, aiming to bring onboard another 450 pilots and 700-800 cabin crew by the end of 2024.
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Air India Express is on track to grow its fleet to 100 aircraft by December 2024 and aims to reach 175 aircraft within five years. The recent induction of three Boeing 737-8 aircraft and the scheduled delivery of two more this month mark a strategic step toward achieving this goal. The airline plans to have a total of 50 new aircraft by December 2024.
As the airline consolidates its network and expands operations, Air India Express is poised to play a pivotal role in connecting diverse regions and contributing to the aviation growth in the Gulf and Southeast Asia.
