Air India Express Ascends Higher Following the Merger with AIX Connect, Doubling Its Routes and Reaching New Altitudes The merger between Air India Express and AIX Connect significantly enhances its fleet and routes, representing a pivotal advancement in the transformation and growth of the Air India Group within the low-cost aviation sector.
In a significant development, the Air India Group has achieved a crucial landmark by finalizing the merger of Air India Express Ltd and AIX Connect Pvt Ltd (previously known as AirAsia India). This integration establishes a unified low-cost carrier operating under the ‘Air India Express‘ brand, reflecting the group’s dedication to building a streamlined and competitive aviation operation.
AI transformation initiative, which is a comprehensive five-year strategy designed to overhaul Air India’s operations, also encompasses the consolidation of four airlines within the Air India Group into two separate entities, including the ongoing merger of Vistara into Air India.
Operational and Strategic Impact
The merger significantly boosts Air India Express’ operational efficiency and capacity, allowing the airline to markedly expand its fleet and network. Presently, Air India Express boasts a fleet of 90 aircraft, with aspirations to exceed 100 by the conclusion of the financial year. The number of routes has surged from 74 to 171, accompanied by a remarkable passenger growth rate of over 400% since the Tata Group took ownership of Air India in 2022.
This growth solidifies Air India Express’ position as a crucial player in the low-cost carrier market, particularly in India, the Gulf region, and Southeast Asia.
Aloke Singh, Managing Director of Air India Express, highlighted the essential collaborative efforts among regulatory authorities such as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), which were vital to the success of this merger. “The close collaboration was key to the success of this endeavor,” Singh remarked, underscoring the importance of this integration for the airline’s future advancement.
Air India Express fleet development
Air India Express boasts a diverse array of aircraft within its fleet. The airline initially launched with the Boeing 737-800 models in its inventory. Additionally, it acquired several leased 737-800s when Vistara relinquished them. Currently, Air India Express operates 26 B737-800 aircraft, which includes two transferred from Vistara.
Following the merger with AirAsia India and the discontinuation of the “AirAsia” brand, the airline rebranded as AIX Connect and incorporated A320 ceo and neo aircraft into its fleet, previously operated by AirAsia India. The airline has phased out the AirAsia name, and many of these planes still fly under a plain red livery, awaiting their turn for a fresh coat of paint. Air India Express currently has 27 A320 aircraft, including five A320neos, which it received from AirAsia India.
Here’s a summary of the current fleet:
This expanding fleet demonstrates Air India Express’ dedication to offering safe, dependable, and economical air travel, while simultaneously generating numerous job opportunities for aviation enthusiasts.
In October of last year, Air India Express revealed its new livery, which is being applied to the recently added Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in its fleet, as well as some existing aircraft. Air India Express has swiftly integrated 35 737 MAX 8s into its operations, having selected 50 aircraft that were available and not claimed by other airlines.
Between October 2023 and March 2024, Air India introduced five A320 CEO and thirteen A320 NEO aircraft, along with ten A320neos configured entirely for the economy class from Vistara. Two aircraft have been assigned to Air India Express, and over 20 A320 aircraft with all-economy configurations are set to join Air India Express.
Growth in Low-Cost Air Travel
This merger strategically positions Air India Express to seize a larger share of the market, especially among the youth in India who are increasingly pursuing affordable yet high-quality air travel.
With an emphasis on efficiency and innovation, the airline is anticipated to foster competition within the regional aviation landscape. Campbell Wilson, CEO of Air India and Chairman of Air India Express, described the merger as a significant milestone in the transformation journey, asserting that the unified low-cost carrier will continue to address the surging demand for air travel in India and neighboring areas. Wilson also confirmed that the subsequent phase of Air India Group’s integration will include the merger of Vistara with Air India, scheduled for November 12.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Air India Express is poised to further leverage the rising demand for cost-effective air travel, bolstered by its expanded fleet and operational strengths. With the successful integration of AIX Connect, the airline is now strategically positioned to meet its ambitious growth objectives, establishing itself as a key player in India’s rapidly evolving aviation market.
The next phase of Air India Express’s integration with the group is currently underway. Having absorbed AirAsia India, Air India Express is now acquiring aircraft from Air India to enhance its operations and is expected to take over various routes from Air India shortly. More than 20 jets will transition from Air India to Air India Express in an all-economy configuration.
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