- By Aashish Vashistha
- Fri, 06 Dec 2024 03:37 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Air India Express, the low-cost subsidiary of Air India, is set to undergo a major expansion, increasing its fleet and launching new routes amid rising passenger demand. However, the airline has postponed its plans to introduce direct flights between Kolkata and Dhaka due to the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh.
"You would recall we had announced our operational plan for Dhaka, which is a new and significant market for us. But because of the situation there, we have deferred those plans," Aloke Singh, Managing Director of Air India was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.
“As soon as the conditions are right, we will resume those plans,” he further said.
The airline had originally scheduled to begin its Dhaka services in September, with six weekly flights. However, despite the delay, Singh emphasized that the airline remains dedicated to strengthening its presence in the eastern region.
Air India Express Expansion Plans
Air India Express aims to expand its fleet to over 100 aircraft by March 2025, up from 90. Over the next three years, the fleet is expected to grow to nearly 175 aircraft. As part of the larger Air India Group, the airline is also contributing to the group's ambitious plan to acquire 470 aircraft in the coming years.
The airline plans to increase its fleet to more than 100 aircraft by March 2025, increasing from the current 90. Over the next three years, the airline aims to expand its fleet to around 175 aircraft. This is part of the broader Air India Group's goal to acquire a total of 470 aircraft in the coming years.
Air India Express operates more than 400 flights daily, serving 36 domestic and 15 international destinations. Its fleet includes 90 aircraft, comprising 61 Boeing 737s and 29 Airbus A320s. In Kolkata, the airline holds a market share of 12 per cent, which increases to 24 per cent when combined with its parent company, Air India.