According to an exclusive interview with NDTV Profit, Akasa Air CEO Vinay Dube confirmed the airline is targeting an initial public offering within two to four years as the carrier completes four years of operations. Dube stated that the airline's financial metrics have tracked ahead of plan since launch, with the company well positioned to present a coherent profitability story for any listing. The airline generated nearly 30% year-on-year growth in the April-June quarter, demonstrating strong operational momentum.
As reported by NDTV Profit, Akasa Air currently operates 40 aircraft with 186 more on order for delivery through 2032, with delivery pace expected to accelerate. Dube indicated the airline is on course to be among the world's top 30 airlines by the early 2030s. The airline's international operations currently account for 25% of capacity deployment, a share Dube expects to rise to 30-35% over time, while domestic routes will continue as the bulk of the network.
According to the NDTV Profit interview, Dube emphasized that Akasa Air is not chasing market share but focusing on scale to drive profitability. He explained that competitors could grow at 8,000% with no impact on their strategy, as the airline will continue disciplined growth to achieve profitability independently of competitor actions. The airline maintains a Boeing-only fleet commitment while reviewing fleet plans annually and remaining open to alternatives if required.
As confirmed by NDTV Profit, Akasa Air will launch its Akasa Elevate loyalty programme on 7 August, offering tier-based benefits including free flights, food discounts, seat selection, and flight change flexibility for top-tier customers. The programme will include retroactive claims dating back to 1 April, providing existing customers with immediate benefits from the programme's launch.
According to the NDTV Profit interview, Dube expressed support for increased competition in India's aviation sector, stating that 'India needs many airlines. India needs more competition.' He expressed comfort with operating as part of a larger airline ecosystem, noting that 'India holds five, seven, ten airlines' as an appropriate market structure. The airline maintains a focus on liquidity planning well ahead of requirement rather than reacting to funding needs, supporting its disciplined growth approach.
