In a groundbreaking announcement at WINGS India 2024, Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, unveiled a firm order for 150 fuel-efficient Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. This marks a historic achievement, as Akasa Air becomes the first Indian airline to reach an order book exceeding 200 aircraft within just 17 months of commencing operations. The order, consisting of 737 MAX 10 and 737 MAX 8-200 jets, is a testament to the airline’s robust financial foundation and the confidence Boeing places in Akasa Air’s future.
Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, shared insights from the airshow at Hyderabad, stating, “This large and historic aircraft order puts Akasa on a path of becoming one of the top 30 leading airlines in the world, by the turn of this decade. Akasa’s remarkable growth testifies to the sheer promise that India holds as an aviation market, and we are thrilled to be a part of this journey.”
The addition of 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, slated for delivery through 2032, reinforces Akasa Air’s commitment to expanding its domestic and international operations. This significant milestone reflects the airline’s confidence in the growth potential of India’s aviation sector.
In 2021, Akasa Air initiated its aircraft acquisitions with an order for 72 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, followed by an additional order for 4 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in June 2023. The recent order brings the total to an impressive 226 aircraft. Currently operating a fleet of 22 aircraft, Akasa Air anticipates receiving a total of 204 aircraft over the next eight years.
The airline announces the commencement of daily flights connecting Ayodhya to Pune and Delhi, providing seamless travel options for passengers. Flight operations are set to commence on February 15, 2024, and travellers can now book flights through various channels, including Akasa Air’s website, mobile apps, and leading online travel agencies (OTAs).
The Boeing 737 MAX family, selected by Akasa Air, aligns with the airline’s sustainability goals. Offering enhanced range and fuel efficiency, the 737 MAX reduces fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 20 per cent compared to its predecessors. Furthermore, it boasts a 50 per cent lower noise footprint and superior passenger experience.Dube emphasised Akasa Air’s commitment to sustainability and customer experience, stating, “This underscores our growth philosophy of expanding in step with the laser-focused delivery of industry-leading customer experience.”
Having served over 6.3 million passengers since its launch in August 2022, Akasa Air currently connects 18 cities across India. With plans for expansion in India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, this monumental aircraft order positions Akasa Air to meet the escalating demand in India’s aviation market, which is projected to become the largest by 2047.
