Dubai: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attended the official induction ceremony of two ATR 72-600 aircraft into the Indian regional airline FLY91's fleet at Dubai World Central (DWC). The event was a significant moment in the aviation partnership between the UAE and India, with aviation leaders from both countries in attendance.
According to Emirates News Agency, the ceremony marked the formal delivery and exclusive viewing of the aircraft, which were acquired from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE). The new additions are set to strengthen FLY91's fleet, which aims to serve underserved regional markets in India. Key attendees included Manoj Chacko, Founder, Managing Director, and CEO of FLY91, as well as senior representatives from FLY91, DAE, and ATR.
The newly inducted ATR 72-600 aircraft are part of FLY91's long-term strategy to enhance air connectivity across India. This strategic move aligns with the airline's goal of expanding its operations to over 50 cities within five years, supported by a planned fleet of 30 aircraft. Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the importance of this expansion, which is expected to promote economic inclusion and unlock the potential of emerging cities across India.
Sheikh Nahyan emphasized the significant role of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise as a leading provider of aviation services globally. He noted that the partnership with FLY91 is more than a commercial transaction, representing a commitment to empowering the aviation industry and fostering sustainable growth.
The event underscored the strong relations between the UAE and India, describing aviation as a central element in connecting markets, investors, tourists, and families. Sheikh Nahyan expressed confidence in the continued growth and prosperity of the partnership between the two nations.
Sheikh Nahyan also praised the UAE's leadership in global aviation, noting the country's advanced infrastructure and innovative regulatory environment. He reiterated the UAE's commitment to global engagement, innovation, and meaningful international partnerships, as emphasized by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The induction ceremony was about more than just the aircraft; it was a celebration of ambition, innovation, partnership, and leadership. Sheikh Nahyan commended both FLY91 and Dubai Aerospace Enterprise for their strategic focus and commitment to serving communities.
Manoj Chacko expressed pride in welcoming the new aircraft to the FLY91 fleet in Dubai, a city renowned for its aviation excellence. Harsha Raghavan highlighted the UAE's leadership in creating a world-class aviation ecosystem, while Firoz Tarapore emphasized DAE's commitment to supporting FLY91's regional expansion.
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude of ATR highlighted the importance of regional connectivity in India's aviation growth, noting that aircraft like the ATR 72-600 are ideally suited for linking smaller destinations efficiently.
FLY91 currently operates in nine destinations across India and plans to expand to six additional locations by March 2026, reinforcing its commitment to regional growth and connectivity.