Start-up Hans Airways has raised new money in its bid to secure an operating license and commence flights between the UK and India.
The airline had previously hoped to get approval to launch flights in the summer of 2022 but has not yet received its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
On November 15, 2022, it said it had successfully completed a new round of financing, which will help satisfy the UK regulator of its financial viability. Proof of sufficient financing is one of the requisites for an AOC.
A new CEO
At the same time, the new airline announced a management shake-up. Chief operating officer Nathan Burkitt is now chief executive officer, taking over from Satnam Saini, who remains with the airline as a board director. Dr Barry Humphreys assumed the role of interim Chairman, succeeding Ruchir Verma.
“Establishing a new airline is never straight-forward and there will inevitably be hurdles along the way. Hans Airways is now well positioned to move forward,” commented Hans Airways Chair Dr Barry Humphreys. “With growing evidence of strong demand for additional air services between the UK and India, supplemented by charter opportunities, we have every expectation of being able to launch.”
Hans Airways first submitted its AOC application to the CAA in March 2020.
What is Hans Airways’ model?
Hans Airways plans to link secondary cities in Britain and India from its base in Birmingham (BHX). Its first destination will be Amritsar (ATQ) in Northern India.
The new airline will operate A330-200 aircraft in a two-class configuration of economy and premium economy.
Hans Airways has previously said that it will be ready to launch revenue services within a month of the formal award of its AOC.
Outgoing CEO Saini said he was “entrusting” Burkitt to deliver his vision for Hans Airways.
“It has been a long journey and I look forward to continue supporting as Board director,” he said.