RCS

RCS

FLY91 marks its entry into Hubballi,announces three new sectors

Hubballi, 18th April 2026: Indian regional airline FLY91 has inaugurated operations to Hubballi on Friday,April 17 onwards.The airline flagged off three routes on the same day, further strengthening its footprint across key regional corridors. FLY91 commenced operations on three new routes, Solapur–Hyderabad, Hubballi–Hyderabad and Hubballi–Bengaluru, even as the airline stays committed to Solapur increasing the frequency of its Goa–Solapur service, responding to growing passenger demand for reliable and convenient travel options in the sector. Hubballi, a prominent trade, education and industrial hub in North Karnataka, plays a critical role in driving regional economic activity. Improved air connectivity to cities such as Hyderabad and Bengaluru is expected to further support business travel, educational access and industrial linkages, while offering passengers a safe, reliable and convenient alternative to surface transport. Commenting on the expansion, Manoj Chacko, Managing Director and CEO, FLY91, highlighted that the addition of Hubballi reinforces the airline’s focus on strengthening regional connectivity. “The addition of Hubballi to our network reflects our continued commitment to building reliable, trustworthy and convenient regional air connectivity through our vision of ‘Connecting Bharat’. Hubballi is our regional airline’s 12th domestic destination after just two years of starting operations. Connecting as many as two dozen tier 2 and tier 3 destinations in central and southern India within that relatively short timespan is testimony to FLY91’s pursuit of measured growth and commitment to connecting underserved destinations in the country.” Further, addressing seasonal demand, he added, “Due to the peak demand during the summer holidays, we are introducing additional flights on the Agatti–Kochi route twice a week from April 16 to May 20, 2026. This has been a successful route for us, and the increased frequency will help us better serve rising passenger demand.”

RCS

Star Air adds 70 weekly flights including first direct Mundra to Delhi NCR route

New Delhi, 13th April 2026: Star Air has announced the launch of 70 new direct flights weekly across its network, now including a vital new link between Hindon (Delhi NCR) and Mundra, Gujarat’s port city. With Mundra joining as Star Air’s 32nd destination, travellers from Delhi NCR gain direct access to a key economic hub, further strengthening business and leisure ties across northern and western India. Starting 25th April 2026, Star Air will operate 38 direct weekly flights and a total of 54 weekly connections, linking Mundra to six key cities across Western and Northern India. With over 17,000 additional seats now available each month, this landmark move stands among the largest boosts to air connectivity and economic growth the region has ever seen. The expansion sees Mundra directly linked to Hindon (Delhi-NCR), Mumbai, Goa (Mopa), and Surat, offering business and leisure travellers unmatched access and convenience. In addition to the 38 direct weekly flights, Star Air will introduce 16 weekly one-stop connections, strengthening ties with Kolhapur and Bhuj which will add 4,104 seats weekly and 17,000 seats monthly in its operating network. Captain Simran Singh Tiwana, CEO of Star Air, said, “Mundra isn’t just a port, it’s a springboard for India’s industrial and economic ambitions. By seamlessly connecting Mundra with leading cities across Northern and Western India, we’re energising trade, business, and opportunity, while ensuring our passengers enjoy unparalleled comfort on every journey. This expansion is about empowering people and industries, and setting a new standard for regional air travel.”

Civil Aviation, RCS

RCS – Modified UDAN with a total outlay of Rs.28,840 crore approved by the Govt.

New Delhi,26th March 2026: The Govt. of India approved the launch and implementation of the Regional Connectivity Scheme(RCS) – Modified UDAN for a period of ten years from FY 2026-27 to FY 2035-36 with a total outlay of Rs.28,840 crore with the budgetary support of the Government of India. Impact of RCS Modified version on Indian Aviation: Enhanced regional air connectivity to underserved and unserved areas. Boost to economic growth, trade and tourism in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Support affordable air travel for common citizens. Improved emergency response and healthcare access in remote and hilly regions. Greater viability and sustainability for regional aerodromes and airline operators. Promotion of the indigenous aerospace sector under Atmanirbhar Bharat. Progress towards Viksit Bharat 2047 goal. The key components of the scheme are as under: (a) Development of Aerodromes (CAPEX) Under the Modified UDAN Scheme, it is proposed to develop 100 airports from existing unserved airstrips to enhance regional connectivity, in line with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision of infrastructure expansion and transforming India into a globally competitive aviation ecosystem with a total outlay of Rs.12,159 crore over the next eight years. (b) Operation & Maintenance (O&M) of Aerodromes Given the high recurring O&M costs and limited revenue streams for Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-only aerodromes, the Scheme proposes to provide O&M support for three years capped at Rs.3.06 crore per annum per airport and Rs.0.90 crore per annum per heliport/water aerodrome, estimated at Rs.2,577 crore for around 441 aerodromes. (c) Development of Modern Helipads To address connectivity challenges in hilly, remote, island and aspirational regions, the Scheme proposes developing 200 modern helipads at Rs.15 crore each, amounting to a total requirement of Rs.3,661 crore over the next eight years (inflation-adjusted), focused on priority and aspirational districts to improve last-mile connectivity and emergency response. (d) Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Under the Regional Connectivity Scheme, airline operators receive financial support in the form of VGF for operating awarded routes. Recognising the need for longer market development, VGF support to airline operators is proposed amounting to Rs.10,043 crore over 10 years. (e) Atmanirbhar Bharat Aircraft Acquisition To address the shortage of small fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters required for operations in remote and difficult terrains and to advance the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, the scheme also proposes to procure two HAL Dhruv helicopters for Pawan Hans and two HAL Dornier aircraft for Alliance Air. RCS Background: The original UDAN Scheme was launched in October 2016 with the objective of making air travel affordable and strengthening connectivity to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Over nine years of implementation: 663 routes have been operationalised across 95 airports, heliports and water aerodromes (as on 28 February 2026). More than 3.41 lakh flights have been operated, carrying 162.47 lakh passengers. Connectivity has been established in remote, hilly and island regions, boosting tourism, healthcare access and emergency services. The scheme has fostered growth in regional airlines and diverse fleet operations, laying a strong foundation for the Modified UDAN Scheme.

RCS

Pan Européenne places first firm order for ERA, AURA AERO’s hybrid-electric aircraft

Toulouse, 5th March 2026: AURA AERO* has signed the first firm order for its regional 19-seater hybrid-electric aircraft ERA, with Pan Européenne Air Service (PEAS). The French private airline has been supporting AURA AERO and the ERA program from the outset, demonstrating its unwavering confidence in the manufacturer’s vision and progress. As the first airline to make a firm commitment for ERA, Pan Européenne confirms, after having recently taken part in electric flight tests with INTEGRAL E, its pioneering role in decarbonized aviation. This commitment marks a new and important step both for Pan Européenne and for the ERA program, moving from a dynamic of development to a phase of implementation, driven by close collaboration and a shared ambition to accelerate the transition of regional aviation. Headquartered in Chambéry and Lyon, Pan Européenne is a French private airline that has specialized in customized business flights for nearly 50 years. It operates five Embraer aircraft (5 to 49 seats) and serves up to 500 destinations in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The company aims to be one of the first in the world to operate a hybrid-electric aircraft with paying passengers. Designed to revive regional aviation while accelerating the decarbonization of aviation, ERA will be powered by eight electric motors (ENGINeUS, developed by Safran and the world’s first certified electric aircraft engine) and two SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) compatible turbogenerators. It will automatically alternate between hybrid and electric modes depending on the flight phase, with a range of up to 900 NM (1,500 km). Addressing the environmental challenges of the 21st century, ERA reduces CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to thermal aircraft in its category. It is a versatile aircraft that can be configured for passenger transport, business aviation, cargo, or special missions. By combining sustainability and economic viability, ERA is redefining the future of aviation and revitalizing regional aviation, whether connecting islands and archipelagos or offering direct flights between regional destinations. For Antoine Foessel and Clément Jacquot, co-CEOs and owners of Pan Européenne: “AURA AERO’s ambition and values are perfectly aligned with our vision of the aviation of tomorrow. The technological and industrial choices made in the design and production of ERA since the launch of the company have always proved extremely relevant, and it was only natural that we chose this aircraft in order to be able to offer the first decarbonized air transport service in history”. “Pan Européenne is much more than a launch customer; it is a trusted partner that has been with us since the beginning of the ERA program. We are very proud to have the commitment of a company that has chosen to support a French manufacturer, because we share the same values and vision,” added Jérémy Caussade, President and co-founder of AURA AERO. To date, the order book for ERA includes nearly 700 Letters of Intent from 16 international airlines and fleet operators, valued at $12 billion.

RCS

FLY91 acquires two brand new ATR 72-600 from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise

Dubai,February 25th 2026: FLY91 has inducted two brand new ATR 72-600 aircraft into its fleet from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise.With this induction, FLY91’s fleet now stands at six aircraft since commencing operations in March 2024, and the aircraft acquired from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), will be deployed across underserved, emerging regional destinations in India. Manoj Chacko, Founder, Managing Director and CEO of FLY91, said the twin induction marks another measured step in the airline’s expansion strategy. “We are honoured to welcome two new aircraft into our fleet in Dubai, a city that represents global best practice in aviation infrastructure, services, and partnerships. This milestone reinforces our commitment to building India’s most dependable regional airline while deepening collaboration with leading institutions in the UAE. As we expand, our focus remains on disciplined and sustainable growth — ensuring that every aircraft enhances connectivity, reliability, and long-term value for the communities we serve,” he said. H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, said: “The ATR 72-600 is globally recognised for its efficiency, reliability, and performance. It is ideally suited to operate in the communities FLY91 seeks to serve.” He further observed that Dubai Aerospace Enterprise has grown into one of the world’s leading aviation services providers, built on the conviction that its success strengthens communities, improves quality of life and contributes to social and economic development regionally and globally. According to Harsha Raghavan, Chairman of FLY91 and Managing Partner at Convergent Finance, the induction reflects the airline’s structured approach to scaling operations. “FLY91 was built on the belief that regional connectivity in India requires long-term commitment, financial discipline and strong institutional partnerships,” he said. “This addition reinforces that approach as we continue to expand in a calibrated manner.” Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), said the lessor is pleased to support FLY91’s continued expansion as it strengthens regional connectivity across India. “Aircraft such as the ATR 72-600 are well suited to developing regional markets efficiently and sustainably. This official induction underscores DAE’s commitment to working with airlines that are building durable and forward-looking aviation platforms,” he said. Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR, said India is entering a strong phase of aviation growth, with regional connectivity playing a vital role. “This partnership also highlights the strength of Indo-French cooperation in aviation, with Dubai continuing to serve as an important global hub for collaboration and industry development.” FLY91 currently operates to nine destinations across India connecting emerging regional centres. Before the end of March 2026, the airline will expand to six additional destinations namely, Rajahmundry and Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, Hubballi in Karnataka, Nanded in Maharashtra, Dabolim in South Goa and Indore in Madhya Pradesh, continuing its structured and sustained regional growth strategy.

RCS

FLY91 leases two aircraft from TrueNoord for regional expansion

Panaji, 5th February 2026: Regional airline FLY91 has inducted two aircraft under long-term operating leases from regional aircraft lessor TrueNoord, as it continues a measured fleet expansion focused on strengthening connectivity across Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets. The first aircraft entered service in December 2025, while the second, delivered in January 2026, is scheduled to begin operations in February. With this transaction, TrueNoord becomes FLY91’s second aircraft lessor. “This partnership gives us the flexibility to scale our fleet in a disciplined manner, aligned with demand and our long-term regional strategy,” said Manoj Chacko, Managing Director and CEO, FLY91. “The addition of a second leading global lessor to our portfolio is a significant reaffirmation of FLY91’s operational strengths, governance standards and execution capability,” he added. One of the newly inducted aircraft will be based in Goa, the airline’s home base, while the other will operate from Hyderabad, reinforcing FLY91’s dual-hub strategy and its focus on underserved regional routes. According to Harsha Raghavan, Chairman of FLY91 and Managing Partner at Convergent Finance, the collaboration supports responsible scaling. “The partnership with TrueNoord enables growth while maintaining financial and operational discipline,” he said. India’s regional aviation market continues to gain momentum, driven by rising demand from smaller cities and policy support under the UDAN scheme. “TrueNoord is delighted to partner with FLY91 and support its growth plans,” said Anne-Bart Tieleman, CEO of TrueNoord. Abhineet Awasthi, Commercial & Transaction Manager at TrueNoord shares the lessor’s perspective on FLY91’s operating approach. “FLY91 is an agile, execution-driven airline with a clear regional connectivity focus. The team demonstrated a pragmatic, solution-oriented approach throughout the transaction.” With this induction, FLY91’s fleet expands to four aircraft. The airline currently serves nine destinations and plans to grow its network to 15 destinations in the first quarter of 2026, with two additional aircraft expected to join the fleet by the end of Q1 FY2026.

RCS

FLY91 leases two ATR 72-600 Aircraft from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise

Panaji,5th January 2026: FLY91 has leased two ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), a UAE-headquartered global aviation services provider. The two brand-new aircraft are scheduled for delivery later this month from ATR’s manufacturing facility in Toulouse, France. Following induction, FLY91 will enhance capacity, increase frequencies across its existing routes, and expand operations to Hubballi (Karnataka); Vijayawada and Rajahmundry (Andhra Pradesh); Nanded (Maharashtra); and Dabolim (Goa). With the addition of these aircraft, FLY91’s fleet strength will increase to six. The expansion aligns with the airline’s strategy to deepen connectivity across India’s tier-2 and tier-3 cities while strengthening regional air links. “This transaction reinforces our commitment to building a resilient and scalable regional airline through measured growth,” said Manoj Chacko, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, FLY91. “The ATR 72-600 is integral to our operational philosophy, offering an optimal balance of efficiency, reliability and performance for short-haul regional routes. Partnering once again with DAE enables us to expand our fleet while maintaining financial discipline and capital efficiency.” FLY91 had earlier inducted its first two aircraft through DAE.

RCS

Alliance Air introduces “Fare se Fursat” fixed airfare scheme

Delhi, 13th Oct 2025: Minister of Civil Aviation, Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, inaugurated ‘Fare Se Fursat’, scheme of government-owned regional carrier, Alliance Air. The scheme is aimed at giving passengers freedom from the stress of fluctuating airfares and promoting ease of flying in the country. The launch event was graced by Secretary, Civil Aviation, Samir Kumar Sinha, Chairman, Alliance Air, Amit Kumar and CEO, Alliance Air, Rajarshi Sen. Under this scheme, Alliance Air will offer a single, fixed fare that remains constant regardless of the booking date, even on the day of departure. The initiative will be implemented on a pilot basis from October 13 to December 31, 2025 across select routes, to evaluate its operational feasibility and passenger response. Speaking at the launch, the Minister said, “The ‘Fare Se Fursat’ scheme perfectly aligns with the core principles of the UDAN scheme. Today, Alliance Air is carrying forward Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of democratizing aviation and making it affordable for the middle class, lower-middle class and neo-middle class.” The static fare system eliminates uncertainty and stress associated with fluctuating airfares, ensuring predictability of costs, even for last-minute bookings. The Minister also shared his broader vision for making Indian aviation more passenger-centric: “Since taking charge of the Ministry, my focus has been on making aviation more people-oriented. Inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision under UDAN, we have launched Udan Yatri Cafes offering tea for ₹10, coffee for ₹20 and snacks for ₹20 at airports. It is making air travel more dignified and affordable. Now we are taking a step further and addressing the major concern of passengers which is the airfare.” Emphasizing the contribution of the regional carrier, Rammohan Naidu described Alliance Air as the backbone of the Government’s Regional Connectivity Scheme UDAN, connecting Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to the national aviation network. “Alliance Air has taken a bold and exemplary step with the idea of One Route, One Fair. It is truly ‘Naye Bharat ki Udaan’ thinking beyond profitability and keeping the focus on public service,” he said. India’s aviation market largely operates on a dynamic pricing model, where ticket prices vary in real time based on demand, seasonality and competition. While effective for revenue management, it often causes passenger frustration due to unpredictable last-minute fares. “Fare Se Fursat” aims to address this long-standing challenge by introducing transparency and stability in pricing. The initiative is also expected to encourage first-time flyers from smaller towns to opt for air travel, strengthening Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of making air travel available, accessible and affordable. Courtesy: PIB/MOCA

RCS

flyvbird and flYellow partner for Smart Regional Air Mobility

Germany, 6th August 2025: flyvbird, the German AI-driven aviation start-up entering into regional air travel, and flYellow, air operator based in Passau, Germany, have announced a new, operations-led partnership. The collaboration will launch of flyvbird’s flexible, on-demand flight services from Germany – on schedule to start from next month, with Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft operating on flYellow’s AOC. Initial routes will connect regional airports including Friedrichshafen, Mönchengladbach, Münster/Osnabrück, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Hof-Plauen Airport and Berlin Strausberg, says flyvbird CEO Tomislav Lang. Passengers can already submit booking requests via flyvbird’s platform, with first flights scheduled for September 2025. The alliance had the expertise of flyvbird with its digital, agile platform and flYellow’s operational expertise as flying partner. Its Cessna Caravan (D-FEIC), to be operated exclusively for flyvbird, will serve both high-end charter flights and dynamic on-demand services with individual seat bookings. “With flYellow, we have found a strong operational partner who shares our mission: to redefine regional flying—more flexible, sustainable, and truly customer-centric,” says Tomislav Lang, CEO of flyvbird. “Our cooperation with flyvbird demonstrates how combining innovation with experience can drive the future of aviation,” adds Harald Eichberger, Managing Director of flYellow. The partnership marks a major milestone in the evolution of regional air mobility—combining digital intelligence, operational excellence, and sustainability. Plans for expansion, including additional aircraft and network routes, are already underway, he said.

RCS

FLY91’s starts flight from Solapur to Goa

Panaji, 9th June 2025: FLY91, the regional airline has commenced operations on the Goa–Solapur–Goa route on Monday, 9th June.The inaugural flight which took off from Solapur to Goa was flagged off by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Co-operation, Murlidhar Mohol and other key dignitaries. “With the arrival of FLY91’s inaugural flight from Goa, Solapur is now on the aviation map of India. The air transport connectivity will ease the travel of individuals who travel to Solapur for pilgrimage, business and more,” Mohol said at a ceremony held at the Solapur airport ahead of FLY91’s inaugural flight to Goa. The Goa–Solapur–Goa flight will operate four times a week (Mon-Fri-Sat-Sun) at the scheduled timings. With Solapur now added to its route map, the airline connects a total of eight cities, including four in Maharashtra: Pune, Jalgaon, Sindhudurg and Solapur. “Today is a historic day in the lives of the people of Solapur. The efforts of many individuals have gone into making this airport operational and the subsequent start of FLY91’s Goa – Solapur – Goa sector, which witnessed its inaugural flight today. The very first flight from Goa landed at the Solapur Airport earlier today. Goa is a gateway to the rest of India and international destinations. The people of Goa now have an additional option to fly to Goa in addition to travelling to Mumbai via road,” Gore said on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Manoj Chacko, MD and CEO of FLY91, said: “FLY91’s newly introduced Goa–Solapur–Goa route not only improves access between Goa and Solapur but also plays a significant role in bridging two important regions with strong cultural, spiritual and economic prowess. This route will support tourism, business and easier access for families and pilgrims. At FLY91, our goal is to improve regional air connectivity and Solapur is a key addition to our growing network.” FLY91 aims to strengthen its regional network in Maharashtra by launching direct flights from Nanded to Goa and Bengaluru, in July this year, Chacko further added.

FOREWORD

Dear Reader’s,

 

The current edition of Aviation World has covered many areas of Aerospace & Defence based on the latest development in the sector. The front cover highlights three different images, first for the Union Civil Aviation Minister ….. who is leading from the front to steer Indian Civil Aviation sector to witness one of the most interesting phases. He is also facing most tumultuous timing due to the ongoing financial stress in the Aviation sector due to ATF rising cost and long airspace restrictions resulting in mounting losses for Indian carriers. Despite of all the ground level challenges,the minister is addressing new things on regular basis which keeps the sector motivated. We have featured many such developmental works in this edition done under his guidance which will be interesting to read.

Our lead story on “ The West War” is another important feature which covers the ground level reality of the challenges faced by the Aviation sector. Its though time ahead and we believe it will pass soon .

There are features on Regional connectivity and MoCA revised rules on the UDAN 2.0 and how its going to transform the flying experience within India.

In this edition, we have covered topics on MRO,Various Policy changes,Sea Plane Operations by SkyHop Aviation, TATA-Airbus joint project on C295 military aircraft under Make In India which is expected to roll out soon and many other interesting contents which will be good to read.

We are covering Farnborough International Airshow 2026 from 20-24July 2026 in London and our next edition will be based on the same event.For features, you may contact our team on priority basis.

 

Happy Reading!

NEWSLETTER

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We have started 2026 on a very positive note and we look forward to increase our footprints to more locations and induct many more new companies in our campaign.. Do write to us at : editor@aviationworld.in

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