From Food to Flights: Deepinder Goyal’s LAT Aerospace Eyes Regional Aviation

Zomato’s co-founder and CEO, Deepinder Goyal, is once again making headlines this time not for food delivery but for entering the skies. In a bold and visionary move, Goyal has launched LAT Aerospace, a new venture aimed at revolutionizing regional air travel in India.

This ambitious leap from online food to aviation marks a significant shift in the startup ecosystem, as it combines entrepreneurial vision with a much-needed upgrade to India’s regional transportation infrastructure.

Let’s break down what LAT Aerospace is, why it matters, and how it could impact millions of Indians in smaller towns and cities.

What is LAT Aerospace?

LAT Aerospace, short for Lift Air Transport, is a regional airline startup launched by Deepinder Goyal. The goal is simple yet powerful: to connect India’s smaller cities and tier-2 or tier-3 towns through fast, affordable, and efficient air travel.

LAT Aerospace has already secured a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Civil Aviationa critical step before acquiring aircraft and starting operations. The airline now aims to apply for its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in the coming months, which will allow it to officially begin commercial flights.

Why Is Deepinder Goyal Entering Aviation?

You might wonder why would the CEO of a food delivery giant venture into something as complex as aviation?

Here’s why:

• Addressing Connectivity Gaps: While India has made huge progress in aviation, many towns still lack direct air access. Goyal sees an opportunity to bridge this gap.
• UDAN Scheme Alignment: LAT Aerospace aligns with the Government of India’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which promotes regional connectivity at lower fares.
• Creating Ecosystem Synergy: Goyal’s tech background and Zomato’s logistics expertise may play a role in creating efficient, tech-driven airline operations.
• Diversification and Vision: As an entrepreneur, Goyal is showcasing vision beyond food and delivery, stepping into a sector with high growth potential and public impact.

What LAT Aerospace Plans to Do

While the company is still in the early stages, here’s what we know so far about LAT Aerospace’s operational plans:

• Targeting Tier-2 and Tier-3 Cities: Towns like Dehradun, Jamshedpur, Dibrugarh, Bhuj, or Gwalior could be key markets.
• Smaller Aircraft Fleet: The airline may start with 20-80 seater turboprop aircraft, suitable for shorter runways and low-traffic regions.
• Digital-First Operations: Booking, flight tracking, and customer support may rely on a Zomato-like seamless digital platform.
• Affordable Fares: LAT will likely focus on budget-friendly pricing, encouraging new air travelers and shifting traffic from rail to air.

Impact on India’s Aviation Ecosystem

Deepinder Goyal’s entry into aviation is more than just startup news it could have significant implications for Indian air travel:

• Boost to Regional Economies: Better air connectivity can drive tourism, business, and healthcare access in smaller towns.
• Job Creation: From ground staff to cabin crew, LAT could generate hundreds of jobs.
• Startup Inspiration: Goyal’s move may inspire other tech entrepreneurs to solve infrastructure problems through innovation.
• Increased Competition: LAT could give stiff competition to players like Akasa Air, Alliance Air, and others operating in the regional segment.

What the Industry Is Saying

Aviation experts and startup enthusiasts are watching this move with both excitement and curiosity. While entering aviation isn’t easy especially with high fuel costs and regulatory hurdles Deepinder Goyal’s reputation for execution, data-driven operations, and scaling complex businesses has built confidence in LAT Aerospace’s potential.

An aviation analyst commented:

“If anyone can disrupt regional flying in India with a startup mindset, it’s Goyal. But LAT Aerospace will need deep pockets and a long-term vision to survive and thrive.”

When Will LAT Aerospace Start Flying?

As of now (June 2025), the company is working toward securing its Air Operator Certificate (AOC), the final regulatory approval required to operate flights. The process usually takes 6–12 months, depending on aircraft readiness, training, and inspections.

If everything goes smoothly, LAT Aerospace is expected to start operations by early 2026.

Key Takeaways

Here’s a quick snapshot of what LAT Aerospace is about:

• Launched by: Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Zomato
• Focus: Regional air travel in tier-2 and tier-3 Indian cities
• Current Status: NOC granted; AOC in progress
• Mission: Affordable, fast air travel for underserved towns
• Long-term Vision: Digital-first, efficient aviation for all

Final Thoughts

From food to flights, Deepinder Goyal is showing us what bold entrepreneurship looks like. With LAT Aerospace, he is stepping into uncharted skies but with the same passion and precision that made Zomato a household name.

Whether it’s easing travel for students, business travelers, or families visiting hometowns, this airline could soon touch the lives of millions of Indians.

And for the startup world, it’s a reminder that true innovation happens when bold ideas meet real-world problems.