Star Air marks seven years of service, strengthening regional connectivity across India

Star Air, the regional airline owned by Ghodawat Enterprises, has completed seven years of operations in January 2026, emerging as a key player in India’s regional aviation sector. With a growing fleet of Embraer jets and expanding routes und

Star Air’s Journey (2019–2026)
- Launch: Began operations in January 2019, headquartered in Bengaluru.
- Fleet Growth: Expanded to 10 aircraft, including Embraer E175 jets, by 2025.
- Network Expansion: Focused on short-haul routes connecting smaller cities with metros, filling gaps left by larger carriers.
- Passenger Base: Built a reputation for reliable, affordable connectivity in underserved regions.

Contribution to Regional Connectivity
- UDAN Scheme Participation: Star Air has been a strong contributor to the government’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN), linking remote towns with economic and tourism hubs.
- Key Routes: Services include flights connecting Bengaluru, Hubballi, Belagavi, Kalaburagi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Surat, among others.
- Role in Tourism: Enhanced access to cultural and heritage destinations, supporting India’s tourism growth.

Business Outlook
- Revenue Target: Star Air aims for a ₹1,100 crore turnover in 2026, reflecting strong demand for regional travel.
- Market Positioning: Positioned as a “rightsized” carrier—offering smaller jets suited for short runways and low-density routes.
- Future Plans: Expected to expand fleet further and add new destinations across India’s growing aviation map.

Outlook
Star Air’s seven-year milestone highlights its steady rise as a regional lifeline, connecting smaller Indian cities to the national aviation grid. With government support, rising domestic demand, and a clear niche strategy, the airline is poised to play a bigger role in India’s aviation growth story.