Akasa Air launches flights from Noida Airport to Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru
Synopsis
Akasa Air has become one of the first carriers to fly commercially from Noida International Airport, launching direct flights to Navi Mumbai on 16 June. The move stakes out an early-mover advantage in what could become the NCR's second major aviation hub, serving a fast-growing catchment across Noida and western Uttar Pradesh.
Key Takeaways
Akasa Air commenced commercial operations from Noida International Airport (NIA) on 16 June 2025 .
The airline launched direct flights between Noida and Navi Mumbai as its inaugural route from the airport.
The first inbound flight arrived at 9:35 am ; the return departed at 10:15 am .
Co-founder Anand Srinivasan cited long-term network strategy and support for new aviation infrastructure as key drivers.
Vice Chairman Christoph Schnellmann said Akasa's arrival expands travel options for passengers in the region.
Akasa Air also plans flights to Bengaluru from Noida, signalling a multi-city spoke strategy at the new airport.
Akasa Air on Tuesday, 16 June commenced commercial operations from Noida International Airport (NIA), becoming one of the first carriers to launch scheduled services from the greenfield facility in the National Capital Region (NCR). The airline's entry marks a significant step in the airport's journey toward full commercial activation and expands low-cost connectivity across northern India.
Inaugural Flights and Schedule
The airline launched direct services between Noida and Navi Mumbai as its debut route from the new airport. The inaugural inbound flight departed Navi Mumbai International Airport at 7:25 am and touched down at Noida at 9:35 am. The return service left Noida at 10:15 am, landing in Navi Mumbai at 12:30 pm.
What Akasa Air Said
Anand Srinivasan, co-founder and chief commercial officer of Akasa Air, called the commencement a key moment in the carrier's growth trajectory. 'Our early presence at Noida aligns with our long-term strategy of building a strong network across key growth markets while supporting the development of modern aviation infrastructure. We look forward to deepening our partnership with Noida International Airport and delivering seamless, dependable travel experience to our customers in the Akasa Way,' he said.
Airport Authority's Response
Christoph Schnellmann, Vice Chairman of Noida International Airport, welcomed the airline's arrival, saying it would broaden passenger choice and strengthen regional air connectivity. 'As one of the first airlines operating from the airport, Akasa Air will help create new travel opportunities and greater choice for passengers,' Schnellmann said.
Strategic Context
Akasa Air's move to establish an early foothold at Noida International Airport mirrors a broader pattern among Indian low-cost carriers of anchoring at greenfield airports before competition intensifies. The NCR already hosts Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, but NIA is positioned to serve the rapidly urbanising belt spanning Noida, Greater Noida, and western Uttar Pradesh — a catchment area with limited direct air access until now. This is the airline's latest network push following its expansion into several Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities over the past year.
What Comes Next
With Bengaluru also listed among its initial destinations from Noida, Akasa Air is signalling an intent to build a multi-city spoke network anchored at NIA. Industry observers will watch whether other carriers follow suit in the coming weeks, which would be a key indicator of how quickly Noida International Airport scales toward its operational capacity.
Point of View
Not just a route launch. Greenfield airports in India have historically struggled to attract airlines quickly — Navi Mumbai and Jewar-type projects have seen long gaps between inauguration and meaningful traffic. By planting its flag before the airport reaches full capacity, Akasa secures slot and brand advantages that latecomers rarely recover. The real question is whether the Noida-Navi Mumbai corridor generates enough organic demand, or whether this is primarily a positioning play ahead of a broader NCR slot war as NIA scales up.
NationPress
6 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Akasa Air start flights from Noida International Airport?
Akasa Air commenced commercial operations from Noida International Airport on 16 June 2025, becoming one of the first airlines to launch scheduled services from the greenfield facility.
Which routes did Akasa Air launch from Noida Airport?
Akasa Air launched direct flights between Noida and Navi Mumbai as its inaugural route, with Bengaluru also listed among its initial destinations from the new airport.
What were the timings of Akasa Air's first Noida flights?
The inaugural inbound flight from Navi Mumbai arrived at Noida at 9:35 am, having departed at 7:25 am. The return service left Noida at 10:15 am and landed in Navi Mumbai at 12:30 pm.
Why is Noida International Airport significant for the NCR?
Noida International Airport serves as a greenfield hub for the fast-growing belt spanning Noida, Greater Noida, and western Uttar Pradesh — a large catchment area with limited direct air access previously served only by Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport.
What did Akasa Air's leadership say about the Noida launch?
Co-founder and chief commercial officer Anand Srinivasan said the move aligns with the airline's long-term strategy of building a strong network across key growth markets while supporting modern aviation infrastructure development.
