Shankh Air Takes Flight: New Airline to Launch Next Month, Targets Middle Class

• Shankh Air, founded by Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma, to begin operations in early 2026, starting with Uttar Pradesh.
• Aims to be a full-service carrier for middle-class travelers, making air travel accessible and affordable.
• Initial routes include Lucknow to Mumbai, Delhi, other metros, and various UP destinations; base at Noida International Airport.
• Fleet starts with three Airbus aircraft, with international operations planned for 2028-2029.
• One of three new airlines approved by Centre to counter aviation duopoly, following IndiGo crisis.

Why It Matters: Shankh Air, a new airline, is set to launch in early 2026, aiming to democratize air travel for the middle class.