INDIA’S NEWEST REGIONAL AIRLINE

On March 14, 2024, a new regional airline, FLY91, was launched in India. The airline, backed by aviation stalwart Manoj Chacko, was virtually flagged off by Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. The inaugural flight of FLY91 took off from Mopa Airport in Goa to Agatti in Lakshadweep.

Fleet and Expansion Plans

1. Goa-based airline operates one 72-seater ATR-72 aircraft.
2. Will add three more aircraft by June.
3. Fly91’s MD & CEO Manoj Chacko has previously worked with Emirates Airlines and Kingfisher Airlines.

Commercial Operations

1. FLY91 will commence commercial services from March 18, 2024.
2. The airline will initially offer flights connecting Goa to Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
3. This will cater to the growing demand for regional connectivity.

Government Support and Regional Connectivity

1. Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted the government's commitment to connect tier 2 and tier 3 cities through the Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme.
2. The aviation industry expects its domestic traffic to grow from 60 million in 2014 to 300 million by 2030, indicating immense growth potential in the sector.

Regulatory Approval and Route Network

1. FLY91 received its Air Operator Permit (AOP) from the aviation regulator, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to operate flights under UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) and Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS).
2. To secure the AOP, FLY91 successfully completed the required test flights or proving flights.
3. Under the regional connectivity plan, the airline will connect Sindhudurg, Jalgaon and Nanded in Maharashtra as well as Agatti in Lakshadweep.
4. The launch of FLY91 marks a significant development in India's aviation industry, especially in the regional connectivity segment

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