New UK start-up airline Hans Airways has moved closer to launching services to India this summer.
The Birmingham-based carrier has finalised the lease for its first Airbus A330-200 as well as starting cabin crew training in the UK.
Hans Airways is planning to fly from Birmingham airport to secondary cities in India when it will join British Airways and Virgin Atlantic as the third UK carrier to fly between the two countries.
The company has yet to announce its route plans but said it wanted to have “a close working relationship” with travel management companies (TMCs).
The airline hopes to secure a date for its “proving” flight imminently from the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which is one of the main precursors to obtaining an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC).
Barry Humphries, one of the carrier’s board directors, said: “There is room for a third UK airline flying between UK and India. All of us are working exceptionally hard and on schedule to be that third UK designated carrier.”
Hans Airways will offer both economy and premium economy cabins on its flights. Economy will be called Anand Class and feature 274 seats with a 31-inch pitch; the Anand Plus premium economy cabin will have 24 seats with a 56-inch pitch.
The airline will offer free inflight entertainment and meals “as standard”. Hans also plans to launch a loyalty programme for frequent passengers.