India’s New Airline: Uttar Pradesh-Based ‘Shankh Air’ Gets Centre’s Nod

New Delhi: The Union Aviation Ministry has approved Shankh Air, India’s newest airline to begin operations. However, the airline will need clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) before taking to the skies.

The ministry’s approval letter directed Shankh Air to adhere to all applicable regulations, including those related to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued to the airline is valid for three years.

Shankh Air is the first scheduled airline to originate from Uttar Pradesh, with operational hubs planned for Lucknow and Noida.

Shankh Air is set to launch services with a fleet of new-generation Boeing 737-800NG aircraft, News18 reported.

According to the company’s website, the airline aims to bridge key cities across India, providing both interstate and intrastate routes. Its focus will be on connecting regions with high demand but limited direct flight services.

Shankh Aviation Pvt. Ltd., led by chairman Sharvan K. Vishwakarma, an entrepreneur with a strong background in infrastructure and trading, is behind the venture. Vishwakarma’s ambition to make a mark in the aviation industry has resulted in the creation of Shankh Air, with operations launching from Uttar Pradesh’s capital, Lucknow, ABPLive reported.