Belson Coutinho Takes Over as COO at Akasa Air
Akasa Air has appointed Belson Coutinho as its Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective January 6, 2025. In his new role, Coutinho will oversee key operational functions, including inflight services, airport operations, maintenance and engineering, flight operations, and operational excellence. He will also spearhead the Akasa Air Learning Academy, reflecting the airline’s commitment to operational efficiency and talent development.
Coutinho has been with Akasa Air since its inception in 2022, previously serving as Co-founder and Chief Marketing and Experience Officer. He played a pivotal role in shaping the airline's brand identity and implementing customer-centric initiatives that fueled its growth trajectory.
Commenting on the appointment, Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, said, “Belson’s multifaceted experience and deep understanding of airline operations position him to bring immense value as COO. His focus on service excellence, cost leadership, employee centricity, and operational efficiency aligns with our vision of becoming a world-class airline”.
Since its launch in August 2022, Akasa Air has flown over 14 million passengers and established a robust network spanning 22 domestic destinations and five international cities, including Doha, Jeddah, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Kuwait City. The airline continues to focus on enhancing its position in the global aviation market while pursuing long-term expansion goals.
Coutinho’s appointment underscores Akasa Air’s strategic emphasis on scaling operational excellence as it continues its mission to redefine the aviation experience.
