LAT Aerospace: Deepinder Goyal’s Bold Vision to Democratize Regional Air Travel in India

When you think of Deepinder Goyal, the first thing that comes to mind is Zomato and its transformation of food delivery in India. Now, Goyal is setting his sights skyward with LAT Aerospace, a new venture co-founded with former Zomato COO Surobhi Das, aiming to revolutionize regional air travel for millions of Indians.

The Problem: Broken Regional Air Travel

Despite India’s rapid growth in metro-to-metro air routes, regional connectivity remains a glaring gap. Out of over 450 airstrips in the country, only about 150 are operational for commercial flights, leaving more than 300 potential take-off points untapped. As a result, people in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are often forced to rely on slow, inefficient road and rail networks. Goyal and Das, both frequent flyers during Zomato’s expansion, repeatedly encountered the same frustration: regional air travel was expensive, infrequent, and largely inaccessible unless you lived in a major city.

LAT Aerospace’s Solution: “Buses in the Sky”

LAT Aerospace is not just another airline. Its mission is to make flying as easy and frequent as taking a bus, especially for smaller cities and remote regions that mainstream airlines have long overlooked.

Key Features of LAT’s Vision

1. Affordable, High-Frequency Flights: LAT plans to introduce 12–24 seater hybrid-electric STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft, making short-haul flights both frequent and cost-effective.
2. Compact “Air-Stops”: Instead of traditional airports, LAT’s aircraft will operate from ultra-compact air-stops—spaces no bigger than a parking lot—closer to residential and commercial centers.
3. Minimal Infrastructure: By eliminating the need for expensive airport infrastructure, baggage belts, and security bottlenecks, the company promises a “walk in and fly” experience.
4. Targeting Underserved Markets: The focus is on connecting Tier 2 and 3 cities, unlocking economic potential and reducing travel times dramatically.

Backing and Ambitions

LAT Aerospace has already secured $50 million in funding, with Goyal personally investing $20 million. The startup is actively recruiting aerospace engineers, systems designers, and aviation professionals to bring its ambitious vision to life.

The Founders

1. Deepinder Goyal: Non-executive founder, mentor, and strategic guide.
2. Surobhi Das: CEO and operational lead, bringing over a decade of experience from Zomato.

Why Now?

The timing is critical. With government infrastructure expansion and growing demand for fast mobility in smaller towns, a scalable regional aviation model could transform how India connects internally. LAT Aerospace’s “bus in the sky” approach could finally make air travel a practical, everyday option for millions.

Challenges Ahead

LAT Aerospace faces significant hurdles:

1. Regulatory approvals for new aircraft and air-stop models.
2. Cost viability of operating frequent, small flights.
3. Consumer trust in a radically new travel experience.

The Road (or Sky) Ahead

If successful, LAT Aerospace could redefine regional mobility in India, making flying a genuine alternative to long road and rail journeys for the masses. As the venture moves from concept to reality, all eyes are on Goyal and Das to see if they can replicate their Zomato success in the skies.

LAT Aerospace is currently based in Delhi NCR and actively hiring for its engineering and operations teams. For those passionate about building the future of mass aviation, this is a startup to watch.