These traffic rights are granted on a reciprocal basis between governments and their designated airlines, the report said. In particular, existing routes between India and Middle Eastern hubs such as Dubai and Doha are already fully utilized and airlines cannot operate more flights than the permitted number.
This development marks an important milestone for Akasa Air, allowing the airline to broaden its horizons to potentially more profitable international routes that offer less competition. Furthermore, operating longer routes improves the airline’s aircraft utilization efficiency.
In a recent interaction with TOI, CEO of Akasa Air Vinay Dube had said the airline will look at international routes within the range of what 737 MAX flies. “We hope to launch our first international route at the end of this year. In terms of cities we’re thinking about, they’re all within range of where the 737 MAX flies, which is actually the best in class. So a lot of the Middle East, a lot of Southeast Asia, it could be Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, this is the outline of what we are thinking about internationally,” Dube had told TOI.
Akasa Air: from low airline ticket prices to new routes and international expansion plans; details here
Previously, airlines wishing to operate internationally were required to gain five years of domestic flying experience and maintain a fleet of at least 20 aircraft. However, in 2016, the civil aviation policy was revised, eliminating the five-year experience requirement.
Despite its rapid growth, Akasa Air has faced challenges, including a series of layoffs by 43 pilots in just two months, leading to operational disruptions. As a result, the airline experienced a decline in market share, with more than 630 flight cancellations in August.
In response, the airline has taken legal action by filing a case in the Bombay High Court against the retiring pilots, alleging that they failed to adhere to the stipulated six-month notice period as stipulated in their employment contracts.
