Akasa Air Launches Direct Flights to Abu Dhabi

India’s youngest airline, Akasa Air, has commenced daily direct flights to the UAE, marking its third international destination. The inaugural flight departed from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Friday, destined for Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport. This new route is part of Akasa Air’s strategic expansion to cater to the growing demand for air travel between India and the UAE.

Neelu Khatri, co-founder and senior vice president (International) of Akasa Air, expressed enthusiasm about the new route, stating that the launch of daily direct flights between Mumbai and Abu Dhabi will offer affordable and convenient travel options. This initiative aims to strengthen air travel links between the two prominent cities, providing more choices for passengers.

Strengthening Ties with the UAE

Praveen Iyer, co-founder and chief commercial officer of Akasa Air, highlighted the significance of Abu Dhabi as a destination. He noted that the city is home to a large Indian diaspora and is known for its unique tourist attractions. Additionally, Abu Dhabi’s growing trade prospects have consistently attracted business travellers from around the world. Iyer emphasised that this strategic expansion will enable Akasa Air to meet the rising demand for air travel between India and the UAE, ensuring reliable operations and affordable fares.

Akasa Air ventured into international skies in March 2024 and has since been expanding its reach. The airline currently operates flights to Doha, Riyadh, and Abu Dhabi and has opened ticket sales for Jeddah. Additionally, Akasa Air has been granted traffic rights for Kuwait and Medina in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

Expanding Network

With the addition of the Abu Dhabi route, Akasa Air now connects 22 domestic and four international cities. Its domestic network includes major cities such as Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Delhi, and many more. Internationally, the airline serves destinations in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. 

This expansion reflects Akasa Air’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable air travel options while fostering stronger connections between India and key international destinations. The airline’s growing network aims to cater to both leisure and business travellers, enhancing the overall travel experience with reliable and cost-effective services.