You can soon fly to Kenya, Egypt via Akasa Air
What's the story
Akasa Air, the airline founded by Vinay Dube, is looking to expand its international footprint. The CEO has said that the airline is considering launching flights to countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Egypt. Dube also revealed that Akasa Air will soon announce new flights to Sharjah. The airline currently operates a fleet of 30 Boeing 737 MAX planes and plans to add more than one aircraft this year.
Aircraft capabilities
Potential routes to East Africa, Mauritius
Dube emphasized the capabilities of Akasa Air's aircraft, saying they can easily reach East Africa and Mauritius. He said, "Our aircraft are capable of hitting the shores of East Africa, absolutely it can go to Mauritius and on the southern side, it can go to Kenya, Ethiopia, Egypt." The CEO also hinted at potential routes to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in Central Asia.
Operational expansion
Current and expected international operations
Currently, Akasa Air operates flights to six international cities: Doha, Jeddah, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait City and Phuket. The airline also flies to 24 domestic destinations. Dube said the airline's Available Seat Kilometers (ASK) is currently 20% international and 80% domestic. He expects this ratio to change by March 2027 with the international share increasing to around 30%.
Recruitment plans
Pilot hiring to resume in 2026
Akasa Air currently employs 750-775 pilots and plans to resume hiring in 2026, mainly for first officer positions. Dube said the airline is confident about its delivery schedule, especially after the US Federal Aviation Administration allowed Boeing to ramp up production of MAX aircraft. The airline has a firm order for a total of 226 Boeing 737 MAX planes.
Strategic growth
Codeshare partnerships, IPO plans
Dube also hinted at possible codeshare and interline partnerships in the next financial year. He said, "We need to be a little bigger to be an attractive partner for a number of codeshare, interline requirements that other airlines have." On funding, Dube said Akasa Air is well-capitalized and plans to consider an initial public offering (IPO) in the next two to five years.