In a significant development for the aviation industry, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has awarded the Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) to the newly established airline, Fly91. Co-founded by Manoj Chako, a former senior executive of Kingfisher Airlines, the airline, operating under the brand name FLY91, is poised to make its mark in the Indian aviation sector.
The venture, known as ‘Just Udo Aviation Pvt Ltd,’ obtained approval from the civil aviation ministry in April of the preceding year to commence operations under the banner of FLY91. March 2 marked a momentous occasion for the airline as it conducted its inaugural flight from Manohar International Airport, Mopa in Goa to Bengaluru.
Fly91 has opted for the code ‘IC,’ reminiscent of the Indian Airlines, which operated from 1953 until its merger with Air India in 2011. The awarding of the Air Operator’s Certificate by the DGCA is a pivotal milestone, as it authorizes the airline to conduct specified commercial air transport operations.
The airline has demonstrated its commitment to expansion and accessibility by targeting Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns across India. It recently celebrated the successful operation of its first-ever ATR 72-600 flight from Mopa airport, receiving a memorable water cannon salute.
Notably, Fly91 has completed test flights, or proving flights, to secure its AOC, signifying its readiness to take flight in the Indian skies. With its sights set on enhancing regional air connectivity, Fly91 has been allocated its initial routes under the government’s regional air connectivity scheme, UDAN.
Under UDAN, the airline will facilitate connections to Sindhudurg, Jalgaon, Nanded in Maharashtra, and Agatti in Lakshadweep, thereby bridging gaps and enhancing accessibility to remote regions. This strategic move aligns with the government’s vision of fostering connectivity and promoting economic growth across the nation.
As Fly91 prepares to embark on its journey, it emerges as a promising player in India’s aviation landscape, poised to redefine air travel experiences while contributing to the nation’s connectivity and economic development.
Sources By Agencies