Mumbai – Akasa Air’s Chief Financial Officer, Ankur Goel, today underlined the airline’s growth-focused strategy—emphasizing that scaling up aircraft deliveries and fleet size is a pivotal driver for profitability in the current fiscal.
Speaking during a press briefing, Goel confirmed that Boeing has ramped up deliveries of its 737 MAX aircraft, allowing Akasa to steadily increase operational capacity. He stated:
“Increasing in size will result in profitability,” stressing that a larger fleet translates into improved cost efficiencies and revenue potential .
📈 Scaling Strategy & Financial Roadmap
- Fleet expansion: With current fleet numbering around 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets, Akasa aims to grow to 226 aircraft by 2032, targeting a 25–30% CAGR in capacity growth .
- Capacity gains: This fiscal year, the airline expects over 30% growth in available seat kilometers (ASKs), following a 50% surge last year .
- Operational leverage: Goel reaffirmed his position that scaling up improves fleet utilisation, spreads fixed costs, and enhances operating margins, citing his prior statements that “if RASK improves and CASK drops, the path to profitability is certain” .
💼 Fuel for Growth: Boeing Deliveries
The acceleration in Boeing deliveries is a game-changer for Akasa:
- After facing delays, Boeing’s delivery pace has improved markedly, providing Akasa with a clear runway for expansion .
- As Goel noted, fuel costs overseas markets are lower, making international routes significantly more profitable and complementing the domestic network’s capacity .
🎯 Outlook: Profitability Ahead
- Profit timeline: Reflecting on past statements, Goel reiterated Akasa’s target of reaching profitability by FY26, accelerating ahead of peers such as IndiGo .
- Balanced growth: The expansion isn’t just in size—it’s also strategic. Higher international share (from approx. 16% to 40%) aims to boost yields, as Goel clarified in April .
- Investor confidence: With fresh capital raised from prominent backers like Azim Premji and Rakesh Jhunjhunwala’s family, Akasa is financially fortified to support its growth agenda .