What is the difference between an NOC and DGCA AOC?

An NOC is an initial government clearance confirming eligibility to start an airline project. The DGCA AOC is the operating certificate that allows commercial flights after safety manuals, training, proving flights, aircraft induction, and systems checks are approved. Without the AOC, airlines cannot sell tickets or commence scheduled services.

How could the new entrants affect IndiGo market share?

Added capacity can trim fares on overlapping routes and attract price-sensitive flyers, which may chip at IndiGo market share on specific city pairs. However, IndiGo’s network depth, punctuality, and fleet scale remain strong moats. The net impact depends on frequencies, on-time performance, and how quickly the startups build reliable schedules.

Will the UDAN scheme help these startups?

The UDAN scheme can reduce initial route risk through subsidies and lower charges at selected airports. If startups win routes and secure slots, it can aid quick frequency build-up to tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Success still requires reliable operations, cost control, and demand that sustains once incentives taper off over time.

What should investors track through 2026 launches?

Track DGCA AOC grants, aircraft deliveries, proving flights, first schedule releases, on-time performance, and load factors. Watch slot awards and any UDAN allocations. For sector exposure, monitor airport traffic, leasing demand, MRO workloads, and ATF volumes. Consistent operational delivery will matter more than early promotional fares or launch announcements.

Law and Government

India Aviation January 03: 3 new NOCs challenge IndiGo-Air India

ByHuzaifa Zahoor January 3, 2026January 3, 2026

New airlines in India 2026 is now a live theme after NOCs for Shankh Air, Al Hind Air, and FlyExpress. Each plans low-cost and regional routes that could test the IndiGo–Air India duopoly. The next hurdle is DGCA AOC, which decides if 2026 launches stick. We explain the regulatory path, pricing impact, UDAN opportunities, and what investors should track across airports, leasing, MRO, and fuel exposure as competition scales up.