Shankh Air: UP's First Airline Set to Fly in Indian Skies

Shankh Air's Inception and Approval

• Shankh Air, owned by Shankh Aviation Private Limited, received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Union Civil Aviation Ministry.
• The NOC is valid for three years, but the airline still needs clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) before commencing operations.
• It will be the first scheduled airline originating from Uttar Pradesh.
• Sharvan Kumar Vishwakarma, the chairman, leads the airline with a vision to bring new ideas to India's aviation sector.
• The airline's management team has met with officials from Noida International Airport to discuss potential partnerships.
• Shankh Air must comply with regulations regarding Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and SEBI norms.
• The airline aims to begin operations from October 2025, starting from the upcoming Noida Airport.

Operational Strategy and Fleet

• Positioned as a full-service airline, Shankh Air plans to operate both inter-state and intra-state routes.
• Main hubs will be based in Lucknow and Noida, connecting major cities across India.
• Focus on high-demand cities with limited direct flight options.
• Initial fleet will consist of new-generation Boeing 737-800NG narrow-body planes.
• The airline is in advanced talks with global lessors to secure its fleet.
• Shankh Air aims to offer competitive pricing, reliability, and a strong focus on passenger comfort.
• It will provide a two-class product, differentiating itself from low-cost carriers.
• The airline plans to utilize its aircraft for both passenger and cargo operations.

Target Markets and Connectivity

• Primary focus on the Delhi NCR region, including Greater Noida, Noida, Meerut, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, South Gurgaon, and Agra.
• Plans to connect major Indian cities such as Lucknow, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur.
• Aims to provide gateway flights to new airports, including Bhogapuram Airport, Pune International Airport, and Navi Mumbai International Airport.
• Targeting underserved markets with high demand but few direct flight options.
• Strategic location of its hub at Noida International Airport to serve the high-density population in Delhi NCR.
• Focus on improving regional connectivity and increasing passenger volumes from regional markets.
• Collaboration with Noida International Airport for smooth airport management and passenger processes.