Air Kerala considers acquiring Russian Il-114-300 aircraft

Air Kerala, a developing low-cost carrier based in Kerala, is in preliminary discussions with Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) regarding the potential acquisition of up to 20 Il-114-300 regional turboprop aircraft. This potential deal, which would likely be structured as a letter of intent rather than a firm order, is part of a broader plan by UAC to supply 105 of these aircraft to various Indian operators.

CEO Harish Moideen Kutty clarified that the discussions with UAC are not intended to replace the airline’s existing plan to begin operations with leased ATR 72-600 aircraft. The airline expects to receive the ATR aircraft by December or January and aims to commence services within 30 to 35 days of receipt, pending regulatory approval from the DGCA.

The move toward Russian aircraft comes as Indian operators seek alternative supply chains due to long delivery times from Western manufacturers like ATR and De Havilland Canada. Air Kerala also intends to explore opportunities under the Indian government’s UDAN regional connectivity scheme to link underserved domestic airports.