New Airlines Al Hind, FlyExpress Get Nod to Boost India's Aviation Competition

• Al Hind Air and FlyExpress received initial regulatory clearance (NOCs) to enter the Indian aviation market, announced by Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu.
• The move aims to increase competition in India's fast-growing aviation sector, especially after recent widespread flight disruptions by market leader IndiGo.
• Al Hind Air, promoted by Kerala-based Alhind Group, plans to operate ATR turboprop aircraft primarily in southern India, based at Kochi, and expects to start operations later this year.
• FlyExpress is also preparing to launch operations, though specific details on its fleet and routes are yet to be disclosed.
• The government actively encourages new airlines, citing policy support and initiatives like the UDAN scheme, to address market concentration and support growth.

Why It Matters: India's aviation market is set for increased competition with new entrants Al Hind Air and FlyExpress.