The Indian low-cost carrier SpiceJet has confirmed that its commercial fleet is due to expand with the introduction of 10 aircraft by the end of November 2024.
In a statement on October 8, 2024, SpiceJet announced that seven of the aircraft have been acquired through lease agreements and three are being reintroduced after they were previously pulled from service.
The seven leased aircraft have already been signed for and will join the SpiceJet fleet by November 15, 2024, while the three inactive Boeing 737s will return before the end of November.
The airline said that two of the leased aircraft have already arrived in India and will be introduced shortly.
“This addition is crucial as we continue to meet the growing demand for air travel while strengthening our operational capabilities. With the capital raised, SpiceJet is well‐positioned to offer improved services and an expanded route network,” said Ajay Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of SpiceJet.
In September 2024, SpiceJet announced it had raised Rs 3,000 crore (around $360 million) through its Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP).
The airline is also due to receive an additional Rs 736 crore ($87.6 million) thanks to a previous funding strategy.
News of the 10 aircraft entering service saw SpiceJet’s share price jump on October 8, 2024, in a positive sign for the airline.
According to ch-aviation.com, SpiceJet’s current fleet of 17 aircraft consists of two Boeing 737-700s, nine 737-800s, five DHC-8-Q400s and a single 737-900.
Despite a recent settlement being reached with Engine Lease Finance Corporation (ELFC) to resolve a $16.7 million dispute, the carrier still has other claims yet to be resolved, including those by Aircastle and Alterna Aircraft.