FlyExpress and Al Hind Air secure crucial government permits.

India’s aviation sector is preparing for a significant shift as the Union Government clears the path for fresh players to enter the skies. In a strategic move to break the current market duopoly, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has granted No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to two new aspirants, Al Hind Air and FlyExpress. This decision follows a period of intense scrutiny over the domestic flight market, which has recently struggled with massive service disruptions.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed the development, noting that encouraging new airlines in India remains a top government priority. While Shankh Air had already secured its NOC previously, the addition of Al Hind Air and FlyExpress signals a proactive effort to diversify options for Indian travelers. This expansion is particularly timely given that nearly 90% of the country's passenger traffic is currently managed by just two entities: IndiGo and the Tata-owned Air India Group.

The need for more competition became glaringly obvious earlier this month when IndiGo faced severe operational crises. New crew-rostering regulations led to hundreds of flight cancellations, proving how a single airline's internal struggle can paralyze the entire national network. By introducing more carriers, the government aims to create a safety net that prevents such large-scale travel chaos in the future.

For travelers in regions like Odisha, this news offers hope for better connectivity and more competitive fares at Biju Patnaik International Airport. While Al Hind Air brings the backing of the Kerala-based Alhind Group, FlyExpress enters with support from a Hyderabad-based logistics firm. These new entrants are expected to focus on both metro and regional routes, potentially filling the gaps left by larger carriers.

However, obtaining an NOC is merely the first hurdle. To begin commercial flights, these companies must now secure an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the DGCA. This rigorous process requires them to prove financial stability, hire trained staff, and complete safety demonstration flights. If successful, these new airlines in India will play a vital role in balancing a market where IndiGo currently holds a dominant 60% share.