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The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has officially approved the merger of AIX Connect (formerly AirAsia India) with Air India Express (AIX), creating a unified low-cost carrier under the Air India umbrella. The merger ensures that all aircraft from AIX Connect have been transferred onto the Air India Express Air Operator Certificate, allowing seamless operations without disruption.
DGCA Director General Vikram Dev Dutt, in a statement on Tuesday, praised the merger as a new benchmark for airline consolidation, emphasizing the critical role of regulatory oversight. “Air India Express Connect and Air India Express have demonstrated that this merger will create a more resilient and innovative airline capable of competing effectively in the global market,” he said.
The approval marks a significant milestone in India’s aviation sector, with the DGCA conducting a thorough review of organizational structures, aircraft transfers, and personnel realignments. The DGCA’s review ensured that the merger proceeded smoothly, safeguarding safety standards and ensuring passenger convenience.
Complex Integration with No Disruptions
Typically, airline mergers of this magnitude require grounding fleets to integrate aircraft and align operations, causing potential financial losses and passenger inconveniences. However, DGCA and the merged airlines worked closely to avoid such disruptions. A dedicated team was tasked with maintaining the highest safety standards while securing regulatory approvals in a timely manner.
AIX Connect and Air India Express aligned their processes, systems, and operating manuals to comply with aviation regulations and streamline operations. DGCA conducted rigorous oversight, including the review of aircraft leases, insurance agreements, and workforce training to ensure safety and compliance across the board.
A Model for Future Mergers
DGCA Director General Dutt highlighted that the successful merger of AIX Connect and Air India Express will serve as a model for future airline consolidations, including the highly anticipated merger of Vistara into Air India, scheduled for November 12.
AIX Chairman Campbell Wilson added that the merger would allow the newly combined airline to cater to India’s growing air travel demand, especially among younger passengers seeking value-driven options.
In addition to meeting India’s domestic aviation needs, the merged entity is expected to enhance its international competitiveness, offering improved services and expanding its fleet and routes.
With the AIX Connect-Air India Express merger now complete, the Indian aviation industry is set for further developments, including the Air India-Vistara merger, as part of a broader consolidation strategy aimed at transforming Air India into a leading global carrier.
Key Details:
- DGCA approved the AIX Connect-Air India Express merger.
- The merger proceeded without fleet grounding, ensuring continuous operations.
- AIX Connect aircraft were transferred to the Air India Express Air Operator Certificate.
- The merger will create a more resilient and competitive low-cost carrier.
- This merger sets a precedent for the upcoming Air India-Vistara consolidation.
The DGCA will continue to closely monitor post-merger operations to ensure ongoing regulatory compliance and the highest safety standards.
Sources By Agencies
