The airline added that it is the first airline whose end-to-end AOC process was conducted using the government’s progressive eGCA digital platform….reports Asian Lite News
India’s new airline, Akasa Air, on Thursday got its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
“The grant of the AOC is the final step of a comprehensive and rigorous process laid down by the DGCA and marks the satisfactory completion of all regulatory and compliance requirements for the airline’s operational readiness,” Akasa Air said in a statement.
The airline added that it is the first airline whose end-to-end AOC process was conducted using the government’s progressive eGCA digital platform.
The process concluded with the airline having successfully conducted a number of proving flights under the supervision of the country’s aviation regulator, the company said.
“We now look forward to opening our flights for sale, leading to the start of commercial operations by late July. This will begin our journey towards building India’s greenest, most dependable and most affordable airline,” said Vinay Dube, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Akasa Air.
Akasa Air, whose airline code is QP, received its first 737 MAX on June 21.
With a strong commitment to democratise the skies, the airlines’ total order of 72 aircraft includes an initial delivery of 18 aircraft by March 2023, followed by delivery of the remaining 54 aircraft over the course of the next four years.
The 737 MAX family delivers superior efficiency, flexibility and reliability while reducing fuel use and carbon emissions.
Providing the lowest seat-mile costs for a single-aisle airplane as well as high dispatch reliability and an enhanced passenger experience, the 737 MAX will be one of the key factors in ensuring that Akasa Air has a competitive edge in its home market.
“This is indeed a symbolic milestone in the journey of Akasa Air, bringing us one step closer to the process of obtaining our Air Operator’s Permit (AOP) and leading to our commercial launch. While we are extremely happy with this achievement, we want to keep ourselves focussed on the task of delivering on our vision to transform India’s air transportation ecosystems support the nation’s economic growth engine and help fellow Indians chase their dreams,” said Vinay Dube, Founder, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Akasa Air.
Later this month, the airline will commence commercial operations with two aircraft, subsequently adding to its fleet every month.
By the end of the 2022-23 fiscal, the airline will have inducted 18 aircraft and thereafter 12-14 aircraft every 12 months, which will make up its order of 72 delivered over five years, the company said.