Mumbai- New Delhi, 12th March 2026: As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen regional air connectivity, Star Air, the aviation arm of Sanjay Ghodawat Group, has announced a major expansion of its network, with increased frequencies and new destinations planned across India. As part of this broader plan, the airline will enhance connectivity to cities such as Kolhapur and Belagavi, further integrating them with its growing network. The airline’s decision to focus growth here is rooted in Kolhapur’s dynamic business ecosystem, rich manufacturing heritage, and growing demand for seamless connectivity. Belagavi’s industrial strength and strategic location on the Maharashtra-Karnataka border make it an ideal southern counterpart. Together, these two cities are at the core of Star Air’s vision to fuel regional progress and enhance connectivity across underserved regions.
Star Air’s commitment to reliability is reflected in its punctuality, with over 85% of flights from Kolhapur and Belagavi departing on schedule. The airline is also increasing its weekly schedule from 455 to 550 flights this summer, responding to rising demand across its network. With nearly 3 million passengers carried since inception, Star Air continues to deliver on its mission of “Connecting Real India.”
The airline has launched a daily direct service between Belagavi and Mumbai, further integrating North Karnataka and Central India with the nation’s financial capital. At the same time, Kolhapur’s connectivity is being enhanced with new and improved flights to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru, along with vital links to Kishangarh and Indore.
With introductory fares from just ₹4,499* for Kolhapur-Mumbai and Kolhapur-Bengaluru routes, and ₹5,049* for Belagavi-Mumbai, Star Air is making both business and leisure travel more accessible than ever. The airline is committed to expanding its reach and making air travel affordable for underserved regions and emerging cities, delivering value, reliability, and comfort to every flyer.
Commenting on this expansion, Shilpa Bhatia, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer at Star Air, said, “Focusing on Kolhapur and Belagavi is central to our vision of strengthening our presence in India’s aviation sector. With every new route and every additional aircraft, we’re building bridges between businesses, families, and dreams. Our growing network is about empowering communities, unlocking economic potential, and showing that regional India is ready to soar. We remain deeply committed to reliability, comfort, and making air travel accessible to all.”
For Kolhapur’s industrialists, manufacturers, and exporters, these connections mean improved access to Mumbai’s stock exchanges, ports, and corporate headquarters, accelerating supply chains and fostering face-to-face negotiations. Direct flights to Bengaluru now empower Kolhapur’s SMEs and entrepreneurs to connect with India’s dynamic IT and start-up ecosystem, while Belagavi’s business community enjoys easier access to national markets, driving trade and collaboration.
But the impact extends far beyond business. Enhanced air links are making travel easier for tourists, students, and families; strengthening social and cultural ties; and opening new doors for education, tourism, and professional opportunities. Kolhapur’s rich heritage and Belagavi’s unique character are set to attract more visitors than ever.
Passengers can expect a seamless travel experience, with hot meals and beverages served onboard every flight. The airline’s Embraer E175 fleet offers a comfortable 1×2/2×2 seating layout, with both business and economy class options, setting new standards for regional aviation comfort and service. Bookings for the new flights are now open on www.starair.in and through leading travel platforms, and fares are subject to applicable terms and conditions. As Star Air continues to expand, Kolhapur and Belagavi’s direct links to India’s economic centres promise to boost regional growth, mobility, and prosperity for years to come.
