Bhubaneswar: Shankh Air, a new full-service airline with a strong focus on affordability and regional connectivity, is set to commence commercial operations in the second half of January 2026, marking a fresh entry into India’s competitive aviation market.
Founded by entrepreneur Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma, Shankh Air has its roots in the promoter’s trading firm, Shankh Trading, and reflects his journey from modest beginnings to diversified business leadership. The airline aims to cater primarily to middle-class and first-time flyers, combining competitive fares with full-service offerings.
The airline will operate from its base at Noida International Airport (Jewar), while aircraft parking and maintenance support will be handled at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. Initial operations will begin with three leased Airbus aircraft, with plans to scale up to five aircraft within six weeks of launch.
Shankh Air’s inaugural routes will connect Lucknow with major metros such as Delhi and Mumbai, along with several high-potential regional destinations including Ayodhya, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Chitrakoot, Indore, and Dehradun. Many of these routes will be operated under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme, strengthening air links to underserved cities.
Daily services are planned on key metro routes, while select regional sectors will see multiple weekly flights, subject to approvals from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The airline has also outlined its long-term expansion roadmap, with international operations targeted for 2028–29.
Industry observers see Shankh Air’s entry as a boost to regional aviation and competition, particularly as demand for affordable air travel continues to rise across India’s tier-II and tier-III cities.
-OdishaAge
