Akasa Air Joins IATA, Becomes Fifth Active Indian Airline in Global Body

Akasa Air, one of India’s fastest-growing airlines, has officially joined the International Air Transport Association (IATA), marking a key milestone for the carrier less than four years after it launched operations.

The airline announced on January 9, 2026, that it had been admitted to the global aviation body following the successful completion of the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), a globally recognised benchmark for airline safety and operational management.

With the move, Akasa Air becomes the fifth active Indian airline to be part of IATA, which represents more than 360 airlines accounting for around 80% of global air traffic. Other Indian members include Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, and SpiceJet.

Rapid growth since launch

Founded by aviation veteran Vinay Dube and backed by the late investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, Akasa Air began commercial operations in August 2022. The Jhunjhunwala family remains the airline’s largest shareholder, holding about 46%, according to company disclosures.

In a statement, CEO Vinay Dube said IATA membership would enhance the airline’s global credibility as it continues to scale operations and strengthen internal processes in line with international standards.

According to company data, Akasa Air currently operates a fleet of 31 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and serves more than 30 destinations across India and overseas. Its international network includes routes to the Middle East, such as Doha, Riyadh, and Abu Dhabi. Since launch, the airline said it has carried more than 22 million passengers.

Akasa has also placed one of the largest aircraft orders by an Indian startup carrier, with a total commitment of 226 Boeing 737 MAX jets scheduled for delivery over the coming decade.

Sector-wide significance

Akasa’s entry into IATA reflects the broader momentum of India’s aviation sector, which continues to expand amid rising domestic travel demand and growing international connectivity. According to IATA estimates, aviation supports around 7.7 million jobs in India and contributes approximately $53.6 billion to the country’s economy.

Membership in IATA allows airlines to participate in global discussions on safety standards, operational efficiency, digital transformation, and sustainability. For Akasa, the move also opens the door to interline and codeshare arrangements, potentially improving connectivity options for passengers over time.

Summary

Akasa Air has joined the International Air Transport Association after clearing the mandatory IOSA safety audit, becoming the fifth active Indian airline in the global body. Since launching in August 2022, the carrier has expanded to a fleet of 31 aircraft, served more than 30 destinations, and carried over 22 million passengers. The membership underscores Akasa’s operational maturity as it continues to scale in India’s fast-growing aviation market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When did Akasa Air begin operations?

Akasa Air launched its first commercial flight on August 7, 2022, operating between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Q2: Which Indian airlines are members of IATA?

As of January 2026, Indian IATA members include Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air. Vistara ceased to be a separate member following its merger into Air India.

Q3: What is the IOSA audit?

The IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) is an internationally recognised assessment of an airline’s safety management and operational control systems. Clearing IOSA is a prerequisite for IATA membership.

Q4: Who are Akasa Air’s main investors?

Akasa Air was backed by the late investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. His family remains the airline’s largest shareholder, holding about 46%, according to company disclosures.

Q5: How large is Akasa Air’s fleet?

The airline currently operates 31 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and has a total commitment of 226 aircraft to be delivered over the next decade.

Q6: Does IATA membership affect ticket prices?

Not directly. However, IATA membership enables airlines to enter interline and codeshare agreements, which can improve connectivity and travel convenience for passengers.