Akasa Air eyes flights to Qatar, Kuwait & Saudi Arabia

New Delhi: In an exclusive interview Akasa Air CEO Vinay Dube hinted at a phased approach to international expansion, with the initial destinations including Doha, Kuwait, Riyadh, and Jeddah — and on to destinations such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives. 'The Jhunjhunwala family is absolutely not looking to divest,' he added on another note.
 
Dube expressed optimism about the timeline, stating, "It's going to be another few months. We're hoping another 3-4 months. But we are a little dependent in terms of permissions we (need to) get from third parties from foreign countries."
 
He added that the airline has already applied for permission to operate flights to Doha, Qatar, Riyadh, and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. The approval process is expected to conclude in the coming months.
 
The CEO hinted at a phased approach to international operations, with the initial destinations including Doha, Kuwait, Riyadh, and Jeddah. He emphasised that Akasa Air is looking to expand its footprint across the Middle East and Southeast Asia, encompassing destinations such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives.
 
Responding to questions about the timeline for the commencement of international flights, Dube stated, "The first half unequivocally, you should see us fly to these international destinations." This declaration adds clarity to the airline's timeline, setting expectations for eager travellers looking forward to Akasa Air's international services.
 
In addition to the international expansion plans, Dube addressed the financial and emotional commitment of the Jhunjunwala family to Akasa Airways. He assured that the family is deeply invested in the success of the airline, both financially and emotionally, considering it a crucial part of their legacy.
 
"Akasa is part of the Jhunjhunwala legacy; the family is as committed to the brand financially and emotionally as it was many months ago."
Highlighting the significance of the late Rakesh Jhunjhunwala's decision, Dube said, "This was a big deal for the late and great Rakesh Jhunjhunwala — he took a bet on Akasa."
 
Emphasising Akasa's integral role in the family's legacy, he added, "Akasa is part of his legacy, and the Jhunjhunwala family is absolutely not looking to divest."

-B