As the aviation industry gathered last month in New Delhi for the IATA Annual General Meeting, discussions centered on expanding air connectivity across India and ensuring that progress reaches every corner of the nation.
Regional airlines are at the heart of this transformation, with government-backed initiatives like UDAN empowering them to expand their networks and making air travel more accessible and affordable for millions across India.
Since its launch in March 2024, Goa-based startup FLY91 has strategically chosen ATR turboprops as the backbone of its operations, recognising them as the ideal aircraft for efficient, reliable and low-emission regional connectivity.
In just over a year, FLY91 has rapidly expanded its footprint, acquiring four ATRs, operating across eight destinations, having flown 3500+ flights and transporting over 180 000 passengers across the sectors it operates in, proving that the right aircraft choice is key to sustainable regional growth.
One of FLY91’s distinguishing features is its pioneering spirit in route selection. The carrier has focused on launching services in markets that are often overlooked by larger competitors, demonstrating both courage and a keen understanding of regional connectivity needs.
“With our ATRs, we had the flexibility to take risks and invest in uncharted routes," said Manoj Chacko, CEO of FLY91.
"That enabled us to launch the Goa (GOX) to Agatti (AGX) route in March 2024. Our expectations for that route were that it would boost tourism on the island, but it also ended up establishing a vital link between the mainland and the archipelago. Even when aircraft weren’t at full capacity, flights remained financially sustainable.”
This one-hour-and-forty-five-minute route between Goa and Agatti had not been previously served by commercial flights, improving accessibility to Agatti Island, the only airstrip in Lakshadweep, known for its remote location, coral reefs and marine biodiversity.
The island residents have not only benefited from increased economic activity as a result of this new daily service, but also better access to essential and rare supplies during the monsoons, including fruits, vegetables, medical supplies and water. FLY91 also supports local communities by fostering cultural exchanges and essential initiatives like medical camps, impacting lives positively on the islands.
The ATR Advantage
FLY91 has since applied this strategy to four additional previously underserved routes, introducing direct flights, and stimulating passenger demand. ATR aircraft are particularly well-suited for such ambitious initiatives. Thanks to their high fuel efficiency, low operating costs and optimal seat capacity, FLY91 has been able to open new routes with minimal financial risk, playing a vital role for the local economy.
By connecting previously isolated regions, regional airlines help distribute wealth, support local businesses and enhance territorial development. This is why regional aviation is also a matter of sovereignty – ensuring territorial continuity and national cohesion. By providing consistent air links, governments ensure that all regions remain accessible and economically integrated.
With plans to operate 30 ATR aircraft by 2030, FLY91 is demonstrating how ATR’s capabilities align perfectly with India’s growing regional aviation needs—delivering optimal capacity, economic efficiency, and seamless airport accessibility.
With only 3% of regional mobility being facilitated by air travel today, compared to 8-9% in Europe or the rest of Asia, the untapped potential of India is immense, and ATR stands ready to support its connectivity needs.
BlueSky Business Aviation News | 3rd July 2025 | Issue #802
