MUMBAI: EaseMyTrip.com, one of India's leading online travel platforms, is spreading its wings. The board has given in-principle approval to acquire a 49 per cent stake in Big Charter, a key player in India's charter aviation sector.

This sky-high ambition marks EaseMyTrip's first major foray into the rapidly expanding charter and non-scheduled aviation market, enabling the company to offer more bespoke, premium and flexible air travel options.

India's charter aviation industry, currently valued at approximately $650.5 million, is projected to soar to $1.14 billion by 2033. This growth is expected to be fuelled by increasing demand for regional connectivity, corporate travel and private flying. Globally, the sector is experiencing exceptional turbulence—the good kind—with projections indicating a market value exceeding $33 billion by 2033.

The proposed acquisition strengthens EaseMyTrip's position as a comprehensive travel provider, enabling the company to capitalize on high-margin segments. As corporate clients, high-net-worth individuals and event travellers increasingly charter their own course through the skies, EaseMyTrip is positioning itself to cash in on the trend.

By integrating its cutting-edge technology into Big Charter's existing operations, the company aims to make the booking process smoother than a first-class landing.

Big Charter has established itself as a leader in regional connectivity, serving clients across India. In FY 2023-24, the company generated Rs 128.75 crore (approximately $15.5 million) in revenue, with significant growth potential as demand for regional and charter services continues to climb.

EaseMyTrip  chairman & founder Nishant Pitti said: "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 revolutionise the way air travel is experienced. The integration of their non-scheduled operator permit (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.”

Big Charter director Sanjay Mandavia is equally pleased about the deal. "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," he notes. "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."

With this strategic acquisition, EaseMyTrip is set to become a formidable player in the Indian charter aviation market, offering an expansive suite of travel services. This move not only positions the company for long-term growth but also contributes to bringing accessible and flexible air travel options to more people across the country—ensuring that the sky is certainly not the limit.