AIX replaces Air India for Imphal service
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 15 2025: In a historic and emotional moment in Manipur's aviation history, Air India has officially ceased operations at Imphal International Airport, marking the end of decades of service that connected the north-eastern state to the rest of the country.

The carrier's final flight from Imphal on Saturday drew reactions, with airport staff and airline employees bidding adieu as the iconic red-and-white aircraft taxied out of the runway for the last time.

In a Facebook post shared by the official page of Imphal Airport, the event was described as the departure of a "Big Brother", with Air India's exit portrayed as symbolic and deeply sentimental.

"As it took its final departure, an era of Air India operations at Imphal came to a close," the post read.

It featured staff waving goodbye and described the aircraft casting "one last look at the upcoming new terminal building and ATS complex, as if offering a silent blessing.

The departure, however, is not the end of the Tata-led aviation services at the airport.

The airport clarified that the move was part of a long-standing, pre planned strategic transition, and Air India Express, the airline's low-cost arm, will continue to serve Imphal.

"The Tata Group will continue to serve the Imphal airport through Air India Express, its low-cost carrier and wholly owned subsidiary of Air India," the post stated.

Air India Express, now the sole low-cost airline of the Tata Group, was launched after the 2024 merger of Air India Express and AIX Connect (formerly AirAsia India).

It is a subsidiary of Air India, which in turn is owned by Tata Sons and Singapore Airline, with the former having more than three quarters of the share.

The integration of these airlines into a two-brand structure, Air India (full-service) and Air India Express (low-cost), is part of Tata's broader strategy to modernise and streamline operations following the group's acquisition of Air India from the Government of India.

As per company direction, Air India Express is now expanding its domestic and regional footprint, especially in Tier 2 and 3 cities, while Air India is realigning its focus toward metro and international routes.

"Your absence will be felt, but your legacy will remain etched in the heart of Manipur and in the skies you helped bridge," the tribute post on Imphal Airport Facebook Page read.

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