FLY91 Leases Two ATR 72-600 Aircraft from DAE to Expand Regional Network
FLY91 has leased two ATR 72-600 aircraft from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise for delivery later this month, expanding its fleet to six aircraft. The regional airline plans to use the additional capacity to increase frequencies and launch services to Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, Nanded, Hubballi, and Dabolim. Since beginning operations in March 2024, FLY91 has built a network connecting Goa's Manohar International Airport with various regional cities and major hubs across India.
*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Regional airline FLY91 announced on Monday, January 5, 2025, that it has leased two ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) as part of its ongoing network expansion strategy. The transaction marks another milestone in the airline's growth trajectory since beginning commercial operations in March 2024.
Fleet Expansion Details
The two brand-new aircraft are scheduled for delivery later this month from ATR's manufacturing facility in Toulouse, France. This addition will bring FLY91's total fleet size to six aircraft, representing a significant capacity increase for the regional carrier.
| Parameter: | Details |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Type: | ATR 72-600 turboprop |
| Number of Aircraft: | 2 |
| Delivery Timeline: | Later this month |
| Manufacturing Location: | Toulouse, France |
| Total Fleet Size: | 6 aircraft |
Network Expansion Plans
With the additional aircraft capacity, FLY91 plans to enhance its operational footprint through increased frequencies on existing routes and the launch of services to five new destinations. The airline will add services to:
- Vijayawada and Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh
- Nanded in Maharashtra
- Hubballi in Karnataka
- Dabolim in Goa
Strategic Partnership with DAE
"This transaction reinforces our commitment to building a resilient and scalable regional airline through measured growth," said Manoj Chacko, CEO and Managing Director of FLY91. He emphasized that the ATR 72-600 aircraft is integral to the airline's operational philosophy, offering an optimal balance of efficiency, reliability, and performance for short-haul regional routes.
Chacko highlighted that partnering with DAE enables the airline to expand its fleet while maintaining financial discipline and capital efficiency. This marks the continuation of an existing relationship, as FLY91 had previously inducted its first two aircraft through the UAE-based global aviation services provider.
Current Network Operations
Since launching commercial operations in March 2024, FLY91 has been systematically building its regional network with Goa's Manohar International Airport as its primary hub. The airline currently connects various destinations including:
- Regional cities: Solapur, Jalgaon, and Agatti in the Lakshadweep Islands
- Major hubs: Pune, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad
- Emerging centers: Sindhudurg
The strategic focus on regional connectivity positions FLY91 to serve underserved markets while connecting smaller cities with major metropolitan areas, supporting the broader development of India's regional aviation sector.
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