Boeing deliveries back on track, Akasa Air targets new horizons

Akasa Air’s international ambitions are being broadened as the carrier considers launching flights to Kenya, Ethiopia, and Egypt, among other destinations, according to CEO and founder Vinay Dube. The airline, which recently celebrated its third anniversary, is said to be feeling “very good” about its Boeing aircraft delivery schedule and future capacity growth.

It was indicated that flights to Sharjah will be announced shortly, marking the next step in the carrier’s overseas expansion. The airline’s fleet currently consists of 30 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft , with plans to add “more than one aircraft” by the end of the year.

Dube stated that the Boeing 737 MAX is capable of operating across a wide geography reaching East Africa, Mauritius, Kenya, Ethiopia, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, as well as deeper parts of South Asia. “All of these destinations will be considered,” he said, underscoring that the aircraft’s range fits Akasa’s network vision.

At present, the airline serves six international cities Doha, Jeddah, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait City, and Phuket alongside 24 domestic destinations . International operations currently account for 20% of Akasa’s Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) , while the remaining 80% are domestic. The international share is projected to reach 30% by March 2027 , highlighting a strategic pivot toward overseas markets.

Akasa Air employs around 750 to 775 pilots , and the company expects to restart hiring in 2026 , primarily for first officers. It was conveyed that the airline feels confident about its aircraft delivery schedule , which has gained predictability following improvements in Boeing’s production pace. Recently, the US Federal Aviation Administration permitted Boeing to increase monthly production of the 737 MAX from 38 to 42 units, easing supply delays.

The airline has a firm order of 226 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft , signaling its long-term growth intent.

In terms of alliances, codeshare and interline partnerships are expected to be established by the next financial year . Dube explained that Akasa Air aims to grow to a size that makes it an attractive partner for major global carriers. The airline already maintains a codeshare arrangement with Etihad Airways , which enables single-ticket bookings for multi-airline itineraries.

Addressing regulatory matters, Dube confirmed that all observations raised by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had been addressed. “All issues have been resolved to the satisfaction of the regulator, and there is no cause for safety concern,” he said.

Financially, Akasa Air was described as well-capitalised, with an Initial Public Offering (IPO) being considered within the next two to five years. The airline raised funds earlier this year from investors including Premji Invest and Claypond Capital, with the proceeds aimed at supporting operational expansion.

Regarding aircraft diversification, Dube stated that options for wide-body or regional jets and new seating configurations are continuously evaluated, though decisions remain driven by economic rationale. “If analysis shows that wide-body operations are sustainably positive, then such a move will be made,” he noted. Currently, Akasa Air offers an all-economy class service configuration.

Through steady expansion, operational discipline, and capital efficiency, Akasa Air’s ascent in both domestic and international skies continues to gain momentum.