Air Kerala to launch operations by June 2025

Mumbai: Air Kerala, the upcoming Kerala-based airline, has announced plans to begin operations by June 2025, with its first flight departing from Kannur International Airport. While the airline has yet to reveal its maiden destination, it has already secured key personnel, including the CEO and CFO, who agreed with Kannur International Airport Ltd (KIAL) to operate regional routes.

As part of the partnership, Air Kerala will initially offer several departures from Kannur to nearby domestic destinations within a one-and-a-half-hour flight range. The infrastructure at Kannur Airport is already in place, and the airport management is providing full support to Air Kerala as it sets up its operations.

Afi Ahmed, Chairman of Air Kerala, emphasized the central role of Kannur International Airport in the airline's operational strategy, stating that the airport will be a significant part of their plans. He added that the collaboration with KIAL would enable the airline to connect key domestic regions and lay the foundation for future international operations.

The airline received a no-objection certificate from the Civil Aviation Ministry in July and is currently applying for a flying permit from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to begin commercial services. Initially, Air Kerala will operate regional routes with twin-engine turboprop ATR aircraft, with plans to transition to narrow-body jets as the airline grows.

Looking ahead, Air Kerala has ambitious plans for international operations, aiming to expand its network and connect more international destinations through Kannur Airport. The airline's strategic domestic routes will serve as a bridge for passengers traveling internationally, positioning Kannur Airport as a key hub for regional and global travel.

With PTI inputs