Akasa Air has backed an Indian proposal to let airport operators own and run airlines, putting the carrier at odds with IndiGo over a potential rule change that could reshape the country’s aviation market. Chief executive Vinay Dube supports relaxing restrictions that currently limit airport operators in Delhi and Mumbai to small airline stakes, arguing that India needs more carriers, stronger competition and greater consumer choice.
The reported policy review would ease long-standing conflict rules designed to prevent airport owners from influencing airline access to slots, terminal facilities, parking bays, ground handling and airport charges. Dube indicated Akasa would support the move whether an airport group buys into an existing airline or launches a new carrier.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, opposes the idea. Its co-founder and managing director Rahul Bhatia has warned against allowing airport operators to enter airline ownership, while the civil aviation ministry is understood to be examining whether the current framework can be revised. Any change would still require legal clearance and approval from the Union Cabinet.