Late investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala-backed homegrown Akasa Air has achieved a remarkable feat in the Indian aviation industry, emerging as the fastest airline to inaugurate international flights. With its sights set on expansion, the airline has chosen Doha, the capital of Qatar, as its inaugural destination. This strategic move underscores Akasa Air's commitment to enhancing global air connectivity and facilitating seamless travel experiences for passengers.
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“We are delighted to announce our international operations with the launch of our first destination - Doha, to our growing network," said Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air.
Operating Non-stop Flights
March 28, 2024, marks a historic milestone for Akasa Air as it embarks on its maiden international operations, merely 19 months after its inception. The airline will operate four non-stop flights per week, linking Mumbai directly to Doha, thereby strengthening air connectivity between India and Qatar. Passengers can conveniently book their tickets through various channels, including the official website, mobile application, or online travel agencies. With return fares starting at Rs 29,012, Akasa Air aims to cater to a diverse range of travellers, fostering tourism, commerce, and bilateral ties between the two nations.
Why Qatar?
The decision to launch operations in Qatar aligns with Akasa Air's global expansion strategy, focusing on providing affordable air travel options to a wide customer base. Doha, known as a commercial hub and cultural centre in the Middle East, attracts a myriad of travellers from India throughout the year. By offering direct and convenient travel options, Akasa Air seeks to stimulate trade and tourism, contributing to Qatar's ambitious tourism goals outlined in the Qatar Tourism Strategy 2030.
“We are driven by our purpose of connecting people, places and cultures and will continue to augment our global footprint in the coming months. We are confident that travellers will enjoy the signature Akasa experience, and that we will emerge as the preferred carrier on the route”, Dube added.
Expanding Fleet
Akasa Air's ambitious plans are further evidenced by its substantial fleet expansion endeavours. The airline has placed a firm order for 226 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, equipped with fuel-efficient LEAP-1B engines. Currently operating 23 737 MAX aircraft, Akasa Air prides itself on delivering superior efficiency while reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Notably, the airline holds the distinction of being the first to venture into international operations under the government's relaxed 0/20 norm, signalling its commitment to innovation and growth.
Strategic Expansion
Vinay Dube, the visionary Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, expressed his enthusiasm for the airline's strategic expansion into international markets. He emphasized that the foray into Qatar marks a significant milestone in Akasa Air's journey towards becoming one of the world's top 30 airlines by the end of the decade. With a fleet of 23 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and a steadfast commitment to quality service, Akasa Air is poised to redefine the air travel experience on a global scale.
Delighted to announce our landmark order of 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft at @WingsIndia2024 today! This milestone makes us the first Indian airline in the history of civil aviation to reach a firm order book of 200+ aircraft within 17 months of operations.
“We are extremely… pic.twitter.com/vfmEZ2nXku— Akasa Air (@AkasaAir) January 18, 2024
As Akasa Air spreads its wings into international skies, the launch of operations in Doha symbolizes more than just a new route; it represents the realization of a bold vision to connect nations, cultures, and aspirations. With its relentless focus on innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, Akasa Air is poised to leave an indelible mark on the global aviation landscape, setting new benchmarks for excellence and accessibility in air travel.
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