EaseMyTrip.com has received in-principle Board approval to acquire a 49% stake in Big Charter, a player in India’s charter aviation sector.
As per the company, this move marks a significant step for EaseMyTrip into the rapidly expanding charter and non-scheduled aviation market, enabling the company to offer more personalised, premium, and flexible air travel options to a wider customer base.
The Indian charter aviation industry, currently valued at approximately $650.5 million, is projected to grow to $1.14 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by increasing demand for regional connectivity, corporate travel, and private flying. Globally, the charter aviation sector is experiencing exceptional growth, with projections indicating a market value exceeding $33 billion by 2033.
Factors such as rising disposable incomes, an increasing need for privacy and flexibility, and heightened demand from businesses and individuals for time-sensitive travel are driving the shift toward private aviation as a preferred mode of transport.
The company also stated that this strategic proposed acquisition strengthens EaseMyTrip’s position as a comprehensive travel provider, enabling the company to capitalise on high-margin segments like charter services and NonScheduled Operator Permit (NSOP) operations. As corporate clients, high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), and event travelers increasingly turn to chartered flights for convenience and flexibility, EaseMyTrip is well-positioned to meet this demand.
By integrating its state-of-the-art technology into Big Charter’s existing operations, the company aims to enhance the charter booking and pricing process, significantly improving the customer experience.
Furthermore, the acquisition aligns with EaseMyTrip’s broader mission to democratise travel, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where Big Charter has a solid presence. This will allow EaseMyTrip to expand its footprint in remote regions and improve the accessibility of premium air travel for a wider audience.
In FY 2023-24, Big Charter generated Rs 128.75 crore (approximately $15.5 million) in revenue, with significant growth potential as the demand for regional and charter services continues to rise. With this partnership, both companies aim to unlock new growth opportunities and deliver enhanced services to meet the evolving needs of the Indian aviation market.
Nishant Pitti, Chairman and Founder of EaseMyTrip, expressed his excitement about the acquisition, saying, “This partnership is a crucial step toward making charter air travel more accessible across India. By combining EaseMyTrip’s cutting-edge technology with Big Charter’s established expertise, we are poised to revolutionize the way air travel is experienced. The integration of their NSOP operations will allow us to cater to a wider range of premium customers, further solidifying our commitment to driving the growth of India’s charter aviation market.”
Sanjay Mandavia, Director of Big Charter, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Partnering with EaseMyTrip marks a transformative moment for us. Leveraging EaseMyTrip’s technological expertise and vast customer base will accelerate our growth, expand our reach, and enhance the efficiency of our services. Together, we are positioned to offer a more accessible and seamless travel experience, strengthening our mission to provide affordable, reliable, and high-quality travel options across India.”
