New Delhi: Zomato co-founder Deepinder Goyal has ventured into the aviation sector by investing in LAT Aerospace, a startup that plans to address gaps in India’s regional air travel. LAT Aerospace is targeting India’s vast but underutilised aviation infrastructure. Of the more than 450 airstrips in the country, only around 150 are used for commercial flights. The company aims to operate small aircraft from the remaining airstrips, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities where long travel times by road or rail remain common.
In a LinkedIn post, Das explained that LAT Aerospace’s model is designed to make air travel as accessible as a bus journey. The company plans to introduce “air-stops” — small aviation hubs located closer to residential and commercial areas to eliminate the logistical barriers associated with conventional airports. These air-stops are expected to be compact, allowing quick boarding and minimal security delays.
According to Das, the startup’s approach is focused on intentional design and accessibility rather than replicating existing airline models. The aircraft LAT Aerospace plans to operate will serve short-haul routes, potentially connecting overlooked regions where conventional airlines don’t find it profitable to operate. The venture is currently in its early stages and is expanding its team. It has called on aerospace engineers, aviation systems designers, and other experts to join its mission of rethinking regional aviation.
The launch of LAT Aerospace aligns with recent government efforts under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, which seeks to make air travel affordable and widespread. However, challenges such as regulatory approvals, aircraft certification, and infrastructure development remain critical to the project’s success. Goyal’s involvement signals growing startup interest in India’s mobility and transport sectors, especially those targeting underserved geographies. As LAT Aerospace begins operations, its ability to translate vision into viable routes will be key to watch.
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