Claims that new regional carriers will break India's aviation duopoly are a dangerous illusions, the Federation of Indian Pilots said, reports Chandigarh, central India's Tribune India.

FIP president CS Randhawa said proposed airlines Shank Air, Al Hind Air and Fly Express lack funding and expertise to challenge dominant carriers. He noted that regional startups with one or two aircraft inevitably fail within a few years.

His remarks followed Civil Aviation Ministry approvals for Al Hind Air and Fly Express, weeks after mass cancellations by IndiGo raised concerns over competition in the fast-growing market.

Mr Randhawa cited barriers including lack of financing, certification delays, difficulty leasing aircraft, shortage of type-rated pilots, high fuel taxes and steep airport charges. He said leasing firms remain sceptical about placing aircraft in India.

He added Al Hind Air has shut its Kochi office and dismissed staff, while Shank Air is still struggling to obtain its operator's certificate and secure leases.

Mr Randhawa said regional airlines may improve connectivity to smaller towns but cannot compete on high-density routes. He urged the government to bring aviation fuel under GST, cut charges and encourage large corporate houses to enter the sector with adequate capital.