Big entry of 3 new airlines in India, cheap flights from Lucknow to Dehradun; Know the details

By Samira Vishwas On Dec 24, 2025

Three new names are going to be added to the Indian aviation sector soon. And those names are Shankha Air, Al Hind Air and Fly Express. These three airlines are preparing to take off soon. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu gave this information on 23 December 2025. These companies will bring new competition to the Indian skies and give more choices to passengers.

NOC received from the ministry

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu met the teams of these three airlines last week. Shankha Air had already received No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the ministry. NOC was issued to Al Hind Air and Fly Express this week. After receiving the NOC, these companies will now start the process of obtaining Air Operator Certificate from DGCA. Only after that commercial flights can start.

Ram Mohan Naidu said that the government’s aim is to encourage more and more new airlines, so that healthy competition is maintained in the market and fares are controlled.

Over the last one week, pleased to have met teams from new airlines aspiring to take wings in Indian skies—Shankh Air, Al Hind Air and FlyExpress.
While Shankh Air has already got the NOC from Ministry, Al Hind Air and FlyExpress have received their NOCs in this week.
It is… pic.twitter.com/oLWXqBfSFU
— Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu (@RamMNK) December 23, 2025

Small airlines are getting a boost

India is one of the fastest growing aviation markets in the world. Regional connectivity has strengthened due to government policies and UDAN scheme under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Small companies like Star Air, India One Air and Fly 91 are playing a big role in connecting small cities. With the arrival of new airlines, more flights will be available even on shorter routes.

Shankha Air’s initial plans

Uttar Pradesh-based Shankha Air will initially start services from Lucknow to cities like Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, Indore and Dehradun. This will be the first major airline in the state and will make regional travel easier. Al Hind Air is related to Alhind Group of Kerala, while Fly Express is related to Hyderabad based courier company. All these companies will focus on domestic routes.