Akasa Air Charts Bold Course into Southeast Asia Amid Fleet Expansion

India's low-cost carrier, Akasa Air, is set to expand its international footprint by launching flights to Southeast Asia in 2025. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the growing demand for regional travel among Indian passengers and to strengthen the airline's position in the competitive aviation market.

After a year of subdued growth due to aircraft delivery delays, Akasa Air is poised for significant expansion. The airline plans to increase its capacity by 30–40% and introduce new routes connecting major Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi to popular Southeast Asian destinations. These include Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, and Ho Chi Minh City, catering to the preferences of Indian travelers seeking affordable and convenient options for regional travel.

Akasa Air's expansion plans are supported by a substantial fleet growth strategy. The airline has placed orders for a total of 226 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, with deliveries scheduled through 2032. This includes an initial order of 72 aircraft in 2022, followed by an additional 150 aircraft ordered in January 2024. The easing of previous delivery delays, partly caused by Boeing's production issues, has enabled Akasa Air to accelerate its growth trajectory.

To support its expanding operations, Akasa Air plans to establish strategic hubs at the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and Noida International Airport. By basing 5–7 aircraft at each location, the airline aims to alleviate slot constraints at existing airports and enhance connectivity from India's largest cities.

Akasa Air's foray into Southeast Asia positions it to compete with established carriers like IndiGo and Air India Express. With India's aviation market projected to become the world's largest by 2047, Akasa Air's expansion reflects its ambition to capture a significant share of the growing demand for international travel.

_Daily Growth Insights