19 Jan 2025

#3 Jan 2025: India Aviation Newsletter

Akasa Air Appoints Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Akasa Air has appointed Belson Coutinho as its Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective January 6, 2025. Coutinho will oversee several critical functions, including Inflight Services, Airport Services, Maintenance and Engineering, Flight Operations, IOCC, and Operational Excellence. He will also lead the Akasa Air Learning Academy, which focuses on training and employee development.

Vinay Dube, Akasa Air’s Founder and CEO, highlighted Coutinho’s extensive experience in airline operations and a strong focus on brand building, service excellence, and cost leadership. He stated, “Under Belson’s leadership, we will continue to enhance our operational efficiency, deliver on our values of service excellence, and make significant strides toward achieving our vision of becoming a world-class airline.” This appointment signals Akasa Air’s intent to strengthen its operational framework and maintain its commitment to exceptional service.

BLR Airport Surpasses 40 Million Passengers for the First Time

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) announced that it handled 40.73 million passengers in 2024, up from 37.2 million in 2023. This milestone elevates its status to a “Large Airport” in the Airports Council International (ACI) classification (>40 million passengers per annum). This growth is attributed to a significant surge in daily air traffic movements (ATMs), coupled with the launch of new domestic and international routes.

IndiGo’s expanded international network and frequency, along with increased services from foreign carriers, played a pivotal role in driving this growth. BLR Airport now ranks as the third busiest airport in India for international passenger traffic, further solidifying its position as a key hub for both domestic and global connectivity.

IndiGo Solidifies Presence in Sri Lanka

IndiGo has expanded its operations in Sri Lanka, operating 54 weekly flights connecting Colombo and Jaffna to Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. These direct flights between India and Sri Lanka are integral to IndiGo’s long-term growth strategy and underline its commitment to global expansion.

Vinay Malhotra, IndiGo’s Head of Global Sales, expressed pride in the airline’s milestone, stating, “As the leading international carrier operating from Sri Lanka, with connections to four Indian cities, we aim to stimulate tourism and foster economic growth by enhancing air connectivity.” This expansion strengthens bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka, positioning IndiGo as a key player in the regional aviation market.

Acumen’s Take

On Akasa Air’s New COO Appointment

Akasa Air’s decision to appoint Belson Coutinho as COO highlights the airline’s proactive approach to operational excellence. Coutinho’s extensive experience in airline operations and his focus on service excellence, cost efficiency, and employee development will play a pivotal role in shaping Akasa’s future. At Acumen, we view this as a strategic move that aligns with Akasa’s ambition to emerge as a world-class airline by building robust operational and training frameworks.

On BLR Airport’s Milestone Achievement

BLR Airport surpassing 40 million passengers is a testament to the airport’s strategic growth and the increasing demand for air travel in India. This achievement reflects the importance of robust route planning and partnerships with key carriers like IndiGo. At Acumen, we recognize the role of infrastructural efficiency and network expansion in driving such milestones and foresee continued growth for BLR Airport as it strengthens its position as a global hub.

On IndiGo’s Expansion in Sri Lanka

IndiGo’s expansion in Sri Lanka underscores the airline’s strategic vision of fostering regional connectivity. By linking major Indian cities to Sri Lanka, IndiGo is not only stimulating tourism but also facilitating economic growth and cultural exchange. Acumen acknowledges this move as a key step in solidifying IndiGo’s position as a leading international carrier and strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.

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