Air India Express and AIX Connect Finalize Merger, Retire 'I5' Code

Air India Express and AIX Connect, formerly AirAsia India, have officially merged, retiring the 'I5' code. The last flight under this code flew from Goa to Bengaluru. The merged entity now operates under 'Air India Express' with the 'IX' code, and is expected to grow its fleet and routes significantly.

The merger of Air India Express and AIX Connect, formerly known as AirAsia India, has been finalised, with the 'I5' code now officially retired. AIX Connect's final flight under the 'I5' code took off from Goa to Bengaluru on Monday night, marking the end of an era.

The first flight of AirAsia India in 2014 was from Bengaluru to Goa. Now, the merged entity operates under the name 'Air India Express' and airline code 'IX'. The transition was marked by an emotional cabin announcement.

Air India Express, originally initiated by the government in 2005 and now a subsidiary of Tata Group-owned Air India, merged with AirAsia India after regulatory approvals. This merger sets new benchmarks for future airline consolidations in the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)