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Alhind Group Soars High: Kerala-Based Travel Titan Gets Green Light to Launch New Airline

Alhind Group Soars High: Kerala-Based Travel Titan Gets Green Light to Launch New Airline

In a move that is set to reshape the landscape of regional aviation in India, the Alhind Group, a well-known Kerala-based travel and tourism conglomerate, has received the necessary approvals from the Civil Aviation Ministry to launch its own airline.

This development, reported by CNBC-TV18, marks a significant milestone in the group’s illustrious history and signals its ambitious entry into the highly competitive aviation sector.

A Strategic Entry into the Aviation Market

The Alhind Group's decision to venture into the airline business is a strategic one, aiming to capitalize on the growing demand for regional air travel in India, particularly in the southern states. The group plans to commence operations under the brand name Alhind Air by the end of 2024.

With a focus on short-haul regional routes, Alhind Air will initially operate a fleet of three ATR-72 turboprop aircraft, which are specifically chosen for their efficiency and reliability on shorter routes.

These initial routes will connect major southern Indian cities, including Cochin, Bengaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, and Chennai. This regional focus is not only a strategic choice but also a reflection of the Alhind Group’s deep roots in Kerala and its longstanding commitment to serving the travel needs of South India.

Financial Backbone and Expansion Trajectory

Launching an airline requires substantial investment, and the Alhind Group has demonstrated its readiness by earmarking between Rs 200 crore to Rs 500 crore for the initial phase of the airline’s operations. This significant capital allocation underscores the group’s confidence in the profitability and growth potential of regional aviation.

Beyond its initial launch, Alhind Air has ambitious expansion plans. The airline already has five ATR-72 aircraft in its fleet, and the management has outlined a growth trajectory that includes increasing the fleet size to over 20 aircraft within two years.

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This expansion is not just about increasing capacity; it’s also about laying the groundwork for international operations. Once the fleet surpasses 20 aircraft, Alhind Air plans to extend its services to international destinations, opening new avenues for growth and enhancing its market presence.

Leveraging a Strong Legacy in Travel and Tourism

The Alhind Group is no stranger to the travel and tourism industry. With over 130 offices across India and abroad, the group has established itself as a major player in the sector, serving as the General Sales Agent (GSA) for several international airlines.

Its vast experience in managing travel services, coupled with a reported turnover exceeding Rs 20,000 crore, provides a solid foundation for this new venture.

The group’s decision to launch an airline is a natural extension of its business, allowing it to offer end-to-end travel solutions to its customers.

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By integrating airline operations with its existing travel services, the Alhind Group is positioning itself to offer a seamless travel experience, from booking flights to providing on-ground services, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Regional Focus with Global Ambitions

Alhind Air’s initial focus on regional routes is a calculated move to tap into the burgeoning demand for air travel within southern India. The region is experiencing rapid economic growth, increased industrial activity, and a surge in tourism, all of which are driving demand for better connectivity.

By offering reliable and affordable regional air services, Alhind Air aims to become the airline of choice for travelers in this part of the country.

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However, the group’s ambitions do not stop at regional dominance. The planned expansion into international markets reflects a broader vision to establish Alhind Air as a global player in the aviation industry.

The airline’s future international operations will likely focus on connecting South India with key destinations in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and beyond, capitalizing on the large diaspora and growing business ties between these regions.

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