Indian low-cost carrier Akasa Air will begin operating daily flights from the newly built Noida International Airport near New Delhi from June 16, a day after domestic airline IndiGo launches the airport’s first commercial service, as India expands aviation capacity to meet rising demand.

Akasa Air said it would operate daily direct flights connecting Noida International Airport (NIA) with Bengaluru and Navi Mumbai, strengthening links between the National Capital Region (NCR) and two major economic hubs.

“Effective 16 June 2026, Akasa Air will commence daily direct flights connecting Noida International Airport with Bengaluru and Navi Mumbai,” the airline said in a statement.

IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, is set to become the first carrier to operate from Noida International Airport when commercial services commence on June 15. The airline has announced initial direct services to eight Indian cities—Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Goa, and Varanasi—with plans to further expand its network from the airport.

Air India Express is also expected to begin operations from Noida shortly after the airport opens, reflecting growing airline interest in the facility as India’s aviation market continues to expand.

Located in the Uttar Pradesh state near New Delhi, Noida International Airport has been developed to reduce pressure on the capital’s busy Indira Gandhi International Airport and improve regional connectivity across northern India.

Airport authorities said they would announce more details on schedules, passenger services, and future destinations in due course.

“The commencement of commercial operations represents an important step in strengthening regional connectivity, supporting economic development, and creating new opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment,” Noida International Airport said in a statement.

India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), granted the airport an aerodrome licence in March, allowing it to operate under the public-use category with all-weather capabilities.

In its first phase, the airport will be able to handle 12 million passengers annually, with capacity projected to expand to 70 million passengers upon full development. The airport includes a 3,900-metre runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft and advanced landing systems to support round-the-clock operations.

India is one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets, with airlines rapidly expanding their fleets and networks to cater to rising passenger demand fueled by economic growth and increasing domestic travel.

Source: Indian Express