Akasa Air becomes fastest Indian airline to go international, adds Doha as its first destination

Late investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala-backed homegrown Akasa Air has become the fastest airline in India to launch international flights. The company has added Doha, the capital of Qatar, as its first destination.

“We are delighted to announce our international operations with the launch of our first destination - Doha, to our growing network," said Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air.

Operating non-stop flights 

Akasa Air said it will begin its first international operations from March 28, 2024, making it the first Indian airline this achieve this milestone within 19 months of inception.

Akasa Air will operate four non-stop flights a week, connecting Mumbai with Doha and enhancing air connectivity between Qatar and India. Passengers can book their tickets through the official website, mobile application, or any online travel agency. The fares for the return flights start at Rs 29,012, according to the company's statement. 

Dube said the introduction of four flights a week, connecting directly with Mumbai, will cater to a diverse set of travellers from the two countries, facilitating tourism and commerce and strengthening bilateral ties.

Why Qatar?

The launch of operations in Qatar marks the airline’s next phase of growth aimed at expanding operations globally at affordable fares, as per the company's statement.

The company said that Doha, the capital city and commercial  hub of Qatar, is one of the key economic engines of the Middle East region and is also known for its cultural heritage. The city invites a blend of business, spiritual and leisure travellers from India throughout the year. The introduction of an increasing number of direct and convenient travel options will foster trade and tourism, it said.

“We are driven by our purpose of connecting people, places and cultures and will continue to augment our global footprint in the coming months. We are confident that travellers will enjoy the signature Akasa experience, and that we will emerge as the preferred carrier on the route”, Dube added.

The launch of operations in Qatar is also in line with Qatar Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to make the country the fastest-growing tourism destination in the Middle East by 2030.

Expanding fleet

Akasa Air has placed a firm order of 226 Boeing 737 MAX airplanes, powered by CFM fuel-efficient, LEAP-1B engines. It currently operates 23 737 MAX aircraft which delivers superior efficiency in reducing fuel use and carbon emissions.

Notably, it is the first airline to fly abroad under the government's relaxed 0/20 norm regarding fleet size.

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