Mumbai, Nov. 9 -- Regional airline FLY91 plans to expand its fleet from six aircraft to approximately 60 over the next five years and increase operations to nearly 350 weekly flights during the winter schedule, managing director and chief executive officer (CEO) Manoj Chacko said. The airline currently operates across 14 stations and is pursuing a gradual expansion strategy.

FLY91 has placed an order for 40 aircraft, with deliveries expected to start in 2027 and continue through 2032. The first aircraft is expected around the same period next year, while the 40th and final aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2032. The airline also plans to induct additional aircraft outside the current order to reach its fleet target.

Chacko said the airline was prioritising steady and structured growth instead of rapid expansion. FLY91 is preparing to operate close to 350 weekly flights in the winter schedule, representing a significant increase from its earlier operations. The expansion is intended to strengthen its domestic network before any overseas growth.

The airline may eventually explore regional international routes linking India with Bhutan, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Bangladesh and Vietnam. However, it does not currently meet the government's requirements for international operations and is not prioritising an immediate overseas launch. FLY91's immediate focus remains meeting domestic demand.

Chacko said regional travel demand remained strong, with newly launched Navi Mumbai-Goa services operating at full capacity from the start. Services to Lakshadweep and Sindhudurg were also seeing robust demand, while the airline's two to three daily flights to Tirupati were sold out. Rising aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices have created cost pressure, but fuel-efficient aircraft have helped limit the impact. Chacko also welcomed the new UDAN programme while urging airlines to build commercially viable businesses that can operate independently after government support ends.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.