In a significant milestone for Indian aviation, Akasa Air has officially been inducted as a member of the respected International Air Transport Association (IATA) – the premier global trade association representing airlines from around the world. Announced on January 9, 2026, Akasa Air’s successful membership marks a major achievement for the airline and underscores its rapidly rising stature in the global aviation community.
A Young Airline Realizing Global Ambitions
Akasa Air, often described as India’s youngest airline, has completed a remarkable journey in just a few short years since launching commercial operations in August 2022. Founded by seasoned aviation professional Vinay Dube and backed by the late Indian investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, the airline has rapidly expanded its footprint across India and beyond.
Forming part of SNV Aviation, Akasa Air was born with a clear mission: to offer efficient, low-cost air travel that connects both major metros and emerging tier-2 and tier-3 cities. In its initial years, the airline focused on building a robust domestic network, establishing strong operational systems, and embedding a safety-first culture — essential foundations that helped it reach this new global milestone.
What Does IATA Membership Mean?
IATA, established in 1945, is more than just a membership organization. It is the primary global association of scheduled airlines, representing more than 360 carriers that collectively account for over 80% of global air traffic. IATA’s influence spans aviation safety, security, sustainability, operational efficiency, digital transformation, and industry advocacy.
To be accepted as a member, airlines must successfully clear the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) — a rigorous, internationally recognized benchmark for operational safety and best practices. This stringent audit examines an airline’s safety systems, internal processes, and compliance with global aviation standards. Akasa Air’s inclusion indicates that it not only met these criteria but has consistently maintained them throughout its growth phase.
Milestone Achieved: Completing the IOSA Audit
Akasa Air’s journey into IATA began with the completion of the IOSA audit in December 2025 — an achievement that was both a procedural requirement and a testament to its operational maturity. The IOSA certification is recognized across the aviation industry as a hallmark of excellence in safety management and operational integrity.
This audit looked at everything from flight operations and technical systems to ground handling and crew training. In successfully clearing IOSA, Akasa Air demonstrated that its internal processes aligned with the most demanding international standards — an accomplishment that is especially noteworthy given its relatively brief operational history.
India’s Aviation Sector: A Growing Global Force
India’s civil aviation market is among the fastest-growing in the world. Domestic air traffic continues to expand rapidly, supported by rising disposable incomes, increasing business travel, and greater connectivity between smaller cities and major economic hubs. The market now ranks among the top three globally in terms of passenger volume.
Despite its relatively young fleet and network, Akasa Air emerged as a dynamic competitor in this bustling environment. Its induction into IATA places it alongside four other Indian carriers already part of the association:
- Air India
- Air India Express
- IndiGo
- SpiceJet
Being part of this elite group means Akasa Air will now have a voice in shaping industry standards, contributing to policy discussions, and participating in global initiatives related to aviation sustainability, security, and digital integration.
Voices from the Industry
IATA’s Asia-Pacific leadership welcomed Akasa Air’s membership, emphasizing India’s growing influence in global aviation. Sheldon Hee, Regional Vice President for Asia-Pacific at IATA, highlighted the nation’s aviation potential, noting that the sector supports millions of jobs and contributes significantly to the economy. He emphasized that Akasa Air’s inclusion would help enrich the association’s strategic vision and strengthen collaborative efforts in the region and beyond.
Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, expressed optimism about what this recognition means for the airline’s future. His statement underscored that IATA membership is more than symbolic — it reflects Akasa’s disciplined approach to scaling operations and maintaining world-class safety and sustainability standards. He reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to being a “future-ready Indian carrier”, fully aligned with global aviation priorities.
Expanding Horizons: Fleet and Network Growth
Akasa Air’s operational journey began with a modest fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Today, the airline has grown its fleet to 31 aircraft, serving multiple destinations across India and several international routes. With this strong foundation, Akasa Air plans to continue expanding its network, both geographically and operationally.
The airline’s future plans include increasing its fleet size significantly over the coming years, augmenting route connectivity to key global markets, and exploring partnerships that can enhance passenger convenience and operational efficiency. IATA membership is expected to support these objectives by facilitating smoother collaboration with international stakeholders and enabling deeper integration into global aviation frameworks.
A Boost for India’s Global Footprint
Akasa Air’s entry into IATA is also symbolic of India’s growing role in the aviation ecosystem at large. With the country projected to become one of the world’s largest aviation markets in the next decade, international bodies are placing heightened focus on Indian carriers as key contributors to global air traffic and innovation.
Being part of IATA strengthens India’s voice in strategic discussions about global aviation policy, safety frameworks, and sustainability commitments — particularly at a time when the industry is navigating the twin challenges of post-pandemic recovery and climate responsibility.
What This Means for Passengers
For travelers, this development is likely to bring long-term benefits. Membership in IATA not only enhances an airline’s reputation for safety and reliability but also opens up opportunities for more connectivity options through code-sharing and alliances with other carriers. Passengers may eventually see more seamless travel experiences, improved ticketing coordination, and expanded route offerings as Akasa Air leverages its global network integration.
Looking Ahead
Akasa Air’s induction into the International Air Transport Association is a proud moment for Indian aviation — one that reflects ambition, strategic foresight, and a commitment to excellence. For an airline that began operations less than four years ago, this achievement signals its evolution from a domestic low-cost carrier to a recognized member of the global aviation community.
As the airline continues to scale its operations, expand its fleet, and deepen its participation in global conversations about aviation’s future, its IATA membership will serve as both a milestone and a springboard for further growth. The journey ahead is filled with opportunity — and Akasa Air appears ready to seize it.
