Air Kerala secures IATA code, prepares for domestic and Gulf operations

In a significant stride towards launching its operations, Air Kerala, the much-anticipated ultra-low-cost carrier, has been officially assigned the IATA code ‘KD’, setting the stage for its domestic and international rollout, expected as early as mid-2025.

The assignment of the IATA (International Air Transport Association) designator code is a major milestone in any airline’s journey and signifies global recognition in the aviation ecosystem.

For Air Kerala, which has long captured public imagination, especially among the Gulf-based Malayali diaspora, this step renews momentum for a project that has seen stops and starts over the past two decades.

Delighted at receiving the IATA code, Harish Kutty, CEO of Air Kerala said: “This is a key milestone for us in the process of launching the airline. The Air Kerala team has been working hard to achieve this, and we are thankful for the support and encouragement we have received.”

The airline plans to base its initial operations out of Kannur International Airport in Kerala, deploying ATR 72-600 turboprops for regional connectivity to tier-2 and tier-3 cities in India. Plans are already underway to scale operations and introduce low-cost, no-frills international routes to the Gulf region, particularly the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, a sector dominated by demand from the Keralite expatriate population.

A long-awaited dream for Keralites

The idea of Air Kerala was originally conceived by the Kerala government in 2006 in partnership with Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) and other state entities. However, regulatory roadblocks, like the mandatory five years of domestic operations and a fleet of 20 aircraft before any overseas service led to repeated delays.

The recent developments signal a new, determined private push for the airline, backed by a hybrid public-private model where the state holds a 26% stake, while private promoters and industry professionals take the lead in operations.

Kutty further noted: “We are driven by a singular mission, to make air travel more accessible and affordable for the common man. As a ULCC, we are focusing on point-to-point connectivity and simplified service offerings that meet the real needs of travellers, especially those flying between Kerala and the Gulf.”

While the IATA code unlocks international scheduling and ticketing systems, Air Kerala must still acquire an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The management remains optimistic and has reaffirmed its commitment to a phased and responsible rollout.

Once operational, the airline is expected to bring down travel costs on high-demand routes and open new corridors of regional growth, while also addressing concerns of seat availability, last-minute booking costs, and travel fatigue often experienced by Gulf-bound flyers.

Before the pandemic, over 50% of international air traffic from Kerala was bound for Gulf nations, largely serviced by foreign carriers. Indian carriers have faced limited access due to bilateral constraints and operational challenges. A homegrown airline like Air Kerala could potentially shift this dynamic, increasing capacity and affordability.

With its IATA code secured, a growing team, and a clear operational plan, Air Kerala is finally closer to becoming the airline that many Keralites-both at home and abroad have been waiting for.