Dubai-based AlHind Group, a longstanding travel and tourism conglomerate with origins in Kerala, is planning to launch a new domestic airline in India, after receiving initial clearance from the Indian civil aviation authorities. The new airline, named AlHind Air, aims to operate primarily within India using ATR 72-600 aircraft, with plans to expand internationally using Airbus A320 aircraft. The first international destination is expected to be the United Arab Emirates, targeting expatriates with low-cost fares and minimal staffing.
Founded in 1992 as AlHind Tours and Travels, the group expanded to the Middle East in 1995 and now maintains over 130 branches globally. It operates in diverse sectors, including hospitality, charter services, money exchange, IT, and travel solutions. Notably, AlHind acts as a General Sales Agent for major Indian airlines, providing sales, marketing, and customer service support.
Chairman Mohammad Haris stated last year that AlHind Air would initially launch with three domestic flights, targeting a network of six Indian states, and plan to increase to 20 flights before commencing international routes. The group received one of two 'no-objection certificates' issued recently by Indian civil aviation authorities amid ongoing efforts to foster greater competition in the sector, following recent disruptions in airline operations affecting passengers, including UAE residents.
The airline’s website indicates it will serve Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Goa, with further network expansion planned in the coming months.
