Rakesh Jhunjhunwala backed Akasa Air gets NOC from civil aviation ministry, plans to begin flights in 2022

SNV Aviation Pvt Ltd, under the brand name Akasa Air, announced on Monday that it has received a 'no objection certificate' (NOC) from the Ministry of Civil Aviation to operate commercial flights across India. The airline is backed by investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala.

"SNV Aviation Pvt Ltd, that will fly under the brand name Akasa Air, announced that it has received a No Objection Certificate from the Ministry of Civil Aviation as it embarks on its journey to offer Indian flyers a warm, efficient, reliable, and affordable travel experience," the airlines said in a statement.

The statement added Akasa Air plans to offer flights across India starting in the summer of 2022 with an "endeavour to be the nation's most dependable, affordable and greenest airline".

Vinay Dube, CEO of Akasa Air, said, "We will continue to work with the regulatory authorities on all additional compliances required to successfully launch Akasa Air. At Akasa Air, we believe that having a robust air transportation system is critical for our nation's progress."

The proposed airline venture had applied for a NOC, AoP (air operator permit) and other permits from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Acquiring the NOC is the first stage, which is followed by a security background check after which an AoP is issued. Thereafter the technical viability of the airline receives a safety clearance.

The airline venture is partly funded by stock market maverick Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, while ex-Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dube will manage the airline.

Jhunjhunwala will be represented by ex-IndiGo boss Aditya Ghosh in the proposed airline's board.

(With agency inputs)