A day after AirAsia India revealed its plans to introduce nano air fares, Vijayawada-based LEPL Group on Monday announced its plans to enter the aviation sector.
Titled Air Costa, LEPL is gearing up to launch services next month from Vijayawada and five other southern destinations like Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad.
According to company officials, Air Costa has received all preliminary approvals from the DGCA and the Ministry of Civil Aviation. “We are awaiting the Airline Operator Permit from DGCA, which we hope to get it by the end of this month. We should start operations next month,” a senior official told Express.
The company with presence in urban infrastructure, power, hospitality, education and entertainment sectors, is currently in possession of 3 Embraer Jets with a seating capacity of 67 each, suitable for short-haul connectivity between tier-II and III cities and metros.
Air Costa said the Vijayawada airport will serve as its maintenance base and also its headquarters. Its staff are currently undergoing training process. It plans to operate flights to six stations in the first phase.
“Air Costa has chosen the state-of-the-art 21st century fly-by-wire Embraer E-Jets for their efficiency and reliability. Our plan is to link underserved markets in India with more direct flights,” said Captain Babu, CEO, Air Costa. He added E170 and E190 Jets are ideal both in size and range.
“Regional air services have a lot of potential in India, especially as the economy of south India cities is booming. We are committed to further growth in the Indian market by undertaking additions to our fleet and launching new routes over the medium-term,” said Ramesh Lingamaneni, Chairman and Managing Director, Air Costa.