Startup Originals Team
Deepinder Goyal, co‑founder of Zomato, has ventured into the regional aviation space with a new startup, LAT Aerospace, alongside Surobhi Das, a former Zomato executive
Vision Behind LAT Aerospace:
Surobhi Das revealed on LinkedIn that their shared question during Zomato’s expansion was:
“Why is regional air travel still broken – expensive, infrequent, and mostly out of reach unless you live in a metro?”
They highlighted that out of India’s approximately 450 airstrips, fewer than 150 are in commercial use-leaving nearly two‑thirds of the aviation potential untapped.
“Buses in the Sky”: The Business Model:
LAT Aerospace intends to develop a high‑frequency, low‑cost air travel model using STOL (short take‑off and landing) aircraft with seating for 12 to 24 passenger. These planes will operate out of compact “air‑stops”-landing zonses no bigger than a parking lot-built close to residential areas. Passengers can expect a simplified experience:
“walk‑in and fly” with “no chaos, no security lines”.
Why It Matters for Tier‑2 and Tier‑3 Cities:
Millions in smaller towns currently spend hours or even days travelling by road or train to reach a metro or airport. LAT Aerospace aims to bridge this gap, making fast, affordable regional air travel accessible to underserved communities.
Funding and Operations:
The venture has reportedly secured USD 50 million in funding, with Goyal personally investing USD 20 million. LAT Aerospace is actively hiring aerospace engineers, systems designers, and aviation professionals to move from concept to execution. According to Tracxn data, Richard Mahn serves as CEO, with Das and Goyal as co‑founders.
Challenges Ahead:
While the vision is bold, LAT Aerospace faces several challenges:
- Regulatory clearances for regional routes
- Development or procurement of suitable STOL aircraft
- Public adoption, especially in markets used to train and bus travel
