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In an exciting development for the Indian travel landscape, Goa-based airline FLY91 has secured a position on the esteemed IHC–IIHM Hospitality Honours List 2026 in the Hotels, Restaurants & Travel category. This prestigious recognition was unveiled at the 11th International Hospitality Day (IHD) 2026 event held recently in Hyderabad.
Receiving this accolade places FLY91 among the ranks of leading global entities in the hospitality and travel sectors, underscoring its significant contributions to enhancing air connectivity in India. The airline was acknowledged specifically for its commitment to connecting smaller cities, fostering both economic growth and tourism in the regions of Goa, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
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International Hospitality Day serves as a global platform to recognize remarkable achievements within the hospitality and travel industries, with the Honours List curated by the International Hospitality Council (IHC) and the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM). These institutions promote excellence and innovation in service industries across the globe.
The Significance of This Recognition on the Travel Landscape
Being named on the IHC–IIHM Hospitality Honours List signifies that FLY91 is part of a larger narrative that champions entities making a tangible impact on the hospitality and travel environment. Previous inductees have included individuals and organizations that have significantly influenced consumer experiences and regional engagement in travel and tourism.
With senior leadership present in Hyderabad to accept the honour, FLY91’s recognition reflects its growing influence in India’s aviation sector and its commitment to reshaping domestic air travel.
A Game-Changer in Domestic Air Travel
FLY91 operates uniquely as a regional airline, headquartered in Ribandar, Goa, with its main hub located at Manohar International Airport (Mopa). Established in early 2023, the carrier commenced operations on March 18, 2024.
Unlike larger airlines focused primarily on metropolitan routes, FLY91’s core mission is to bridge connections between tier-2 and tier-3 cities and major urban hubs, effectively enhancing accessibility for communities that traditionally had limited air travel options. This approach not only supports the movement of passengers but also promotes tourism and business activities across regional nodes.
As of May 2026, FLY91’s flight network includes connections from Maharashtra cities such as Pune, Sindhudurg, Solapur, and Jalgaon, to Vijayawada and Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh as well as larger destinations like Bengaluru, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Goa. The airline operates a fleet of six ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft, designed for short-haul flights between regional airports.
Enhancing Regional Connectivity and Tourism
FLY91’s growth trajectory showcases its flexibility and strategic expansion, with industry reports indicating its provision of services to up to 14 domestic destinations, emphasizing its increasing influence in central and southern India.
This expansion is crucial for travelers seeking efficient and convenient alternatives to extensive ground travel and indirect flight routes. For instance, emerging industrial cities are now more accessible, reducing reliance on road or rail for business and tourism travel.
FLY91’s operations align with India’s broader commitment to enhancing regional connectivity to improve economic ties and provide air travel accessibility to a broader demographic.
Industry Perspectives and Future Directions
Industry experts view FLY91’s accolade as indicative of a larger trend wherein regional airlines are gaining importance by creating connections to underserved locations, subsequently boosting tourism and travel-related opportunities. The strategic approach taken by FLY91 reflects its commitment to grow responsibly while ensuring their service standards meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers.
In the last two years, FLY91 has consistently increased flight frequencies and expanded its offerings to match the growing demand between key city connections.
A Fresh Narrative in India’s Travel Sector
FLY91’s selection as an honored entity in a renowned global travel recognition platform highlights the evolving dynamics in India’s travel industry. Airlines are increasingly being evaluated not just on passenger numbers but also on their capability to serve communities and enhance overall tourism experiences.
For explorers eager to uncover the rich diversity of India, spanning from the serene islands of Agatti to the vibrant centers of commerce, FLY91’s expanding service framework offers both options and convenience. By connecting previously underserved locales with major hubs, this airline contributes meaningfully to the democratization of air travel, making it an integral part of exploration plans for more individuals.
FLY91’s strategic growth, coupled with its latest recognition from the IHC–IIHM, mirrors the aspirations and responsive strategies of India’s evolving travel opportunities, setting the stage for a bright future in aviation.
Source: The post FLY91 Honoured on 2026 IHC–IIHM Hospitality List for Expanding Regional Routes in Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra: What This Means for Travel first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
