MUMBAI- TATA low-cost carrier Air India Express (IX) is poised to experience its most rapid expansion since its inception, facilitated by the completion of its merger with AirAsia India and the planned incorporation of approximately 50 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft by December 2024.
These strategic moves will enable the airline to amplify its existing West Asia network. Further introduce novel domestic and international routes, including destinations like Thailand, Malaysia, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, reports Hindu BusinessLine.
Air India Express New Destinations
Founded in 2005, AIX has held a dominant position on short-haul international routes; however, its growth has remained static over recent years due to the absence of fresh capacity augmentation.
This trajectory is set to shift in the coming month with the commencement of deliveries for the new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Concurrently, an ongoing merger process between AirAsia India (I5) and IX will result in an expanded fleet and an extended network for the airline.
Currently, AIX boasts a fleet of 26 Boeing 737 NG aircraft, while AirAsia India operates 28 Airbus A320 planes. Both airlines maintain distinct branding, but they are set to transition to the AIX brand later in the year.
The comprehensive merger into a singular corporate entity under a unified air operator certificate is scheduled for March 2024.
A source within Air India emphasized that the initial focus lies in fortifying the existing operations. Collectively, AIX and AirAsia India execute approximately 290 flights on a daily basis.
Anticipating growth, AIX is anticipating the incorporation of 23 additional aircraft by the next March, with a predominant deployment on international routes.
Concurrently, the airline is planning to introduce novel domestic flights from key hubs such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and various cities in Kerala. “We are also considering the possibility of international flights originating from Hyderabad,” the source added.
Seamless Integration
During recent months, executives from both airlines have been meticulously refining the plans for integration. Concurrently, Air India has been collaborating with the airlines on route restructuring and network planning, resulting in several operational adjustments already being implemented.
“IX and AirAsia India share a unified website, a joint call center, and an integrated customer support system. Standardized in-flight menus have been introduced, and IX has successfully launched a streamlined check-in and boarding service. The upcoming phase will involve the seamless integration of employees,” revealed an executive.
In response to the anticipated increase in capacity, AIX is actively intensifying its recruitment efforts. “Rapid hiring and comprehensive training for pilots and crew members are underway,” the executive added.
A total of approximately 150 pilots have been recruited over the past eighteen months. Additionally, AIX pilots are presently undergoing simulator training to equip them with the skills necessary to operate the Boeing 737 Max aircraft.
All Photos by: Harsh Tekriwal (@avgeekwithlens) • Instagram photos and videos
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News.