SpiceJet to unground 10 aircraft by mid-April 2025

Domestic airline SpiceJet announced on January 10 that it will unground 10 aircraft by mid-April 2025, including four Boeing 737 MAX planes, to expand its fleet strength and network. This will increase the current fleet size of 28 aircraft, even as some aircraft are redelivered to lessors during the same period, the firm said.

According to the company’s statement, SpiceJet added 10 planes to its fleet since October 2024, comprising three previously grounded aircraft brought back into service and seven inducted on lease.

“Over the past three months, SpiceJet’s network expansion strategy has resulted in the addition of more than 60 new flights, further enhancing connectivity and service options for its passengers,” it said. During this period, the airline’s network expansion strategy has led to addition of more than 60 new flights.

Ajay Singh, Chairman and Managing Director, SpiceJet, said, “Our plan to bring 10 aircraft back into service by mid-April is a reflection of SpiceJet’s unwavering commitment to its growth and operational excellence.”

Earlier in December 2024, SpiceJet signed an agreement with StandardAero Inc, a US-based engine MRO, for the restoration of its grounded MAX fleet. This agreement followed partnerships with CFM International, the OEM for LEAP-1B engines, and a lessor leading to un-grounding and return to service of three Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, the airline said in its statement.

Also, in the past two months, SpiceJet has resolved disputes with several major lessors and partners, including Export Development Canada, Engine Lease Finance Corporation, Babcock & Brown Aircraft Management, Aircastle (Ireland), Wilmington Trust SP Services (Dublin) Limited, and Shannon Engine Support Limited among others.

These developments come after SpiceJet raised ₹3,000 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) in September 2024 and has since been clearing claims.

SpiceJet shares ended 5.7% lower at ₹49.66 on BSE.