SINGAPORE- Indian Low-Cost Carrier SpiceJet (SG) shows growing interest in widebody aircraft acquisition for future long-haul operations, driven by strong market demand in India.
The airline’s chief executive Ajay Singh revealed these plans during his address at the Aviation Festival Asia 2025 in Singapore.
Photo: AeroConceptSpiceJet Widebody Aircraft
The low-cost carrier’s previous experience with widebody operations stems from its pandemic-era activities, when it wet-leased aircraft for repatriation and charter flights. This experience has informed the airline’s potential expansion into the long-haul segment, though specific details remain undisclosed pending operational stabilization.
SpiceJet marked a significant milestone in its recovery journey with the recent reactivation of its first Boeing 737 Max 8. The aircraft had been grounded due to lessor payment issues. The carrier expects to return three additional Max 8 aircraft to service by April, strengthening its operational capabilities.
The Boeing 737 Max plays a crucial role in SpiceJet’s network strategy, enabling unrestricted operations to high-demand Saudi Arabian destinations like Jeddah and Riyadh. The airline, which primarily operates a Boeing 737 fleet, completed multiple fundraising rounds in 2024 to address its financial obligations and restore its grounded fleet to service.
Photo: avgeekwithlens/ Harsh TekriwalReviving Grounded Fleet
SpiceJet plans to return 10 grounded aircraft to service by mid-April 2025, including four Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, strengthening its operational recovery. The airline currently operates 28 planes and aims to expand its fleet despite returning some aircraft to lessors.
The carrier has added 10 aircraft since October 2024, comprising three reactivated planes and seven new leases. This expansion has enabled SpiceJet to launch over 60 new flights in the past three months, enhancing its network connectivity.
SpiceJet Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh states: “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. We remain focused on providing reliable and affordable air travel to millions of Indians.”
The airline has formed strategic partnerships to support its fleet restoration. A new agreement with StandardAero Inc., a US-based engine repair company, will service the grounded Boeing 737 MAX fleet. This collaboration complements existing partnerships with CFM International, the LEAP-1B engine manufacturer, which has helped restore three Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to operation.
SpiceJet has also resolved disputes with major financiers, including Export Development Canada and Engine Lease Finance Corporation, strengthening its position for sustained growth.
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The post SpiceJet Eyes Widebody Aircraft for Long Haul Flights appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
