SPICEJET NEW FLIGHTS
SpiceJet’s meltdown: Rs 5,500 crore raised, but where did the money go?
SpiceJet's mounting financial crisis raises serious questions over the fate of more than Rs 5,500 crore raised in recent years, its unpaid dues, operational collapse and regulatory oversight. Despite repeated capital infusions, the airline faces mounting losses and possible bankruptcy, while questions persist over fund utilisation, management accountability and aviation safety.
Airlines flew fewer passengers in Sep; traffic falls 6.5% on annual basis
The month of September 2026 marked a 6.5% decline in domestic air traffic from the previous year. SpiceJet's market share dwindled from 1.2% to 0.6%, whereas IndiGo and Air India gained traction. IndiGo led in On Time Performance at 91.1%, just ahead of Akasa Air at 90.8%. Sadly, many passengers dealt with a series of flight delays and cancellations across different airlines throughout the month.
DGCA extends pilot rest rule deadline to March as airlines face cost pressures
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has extended the deadline for revised pilot rest rules to March 31, 2027. This extension is a response to airlines facing challenges such as rising costs and crew availability issues. Previous relaxations were granted after major operational disruptions by IndiGo due to crew shortages. Airline associations argue that these extensions undermine safety regulations and hinder compliance.
No worm for early birds on domestic air ticket counter as advance flight booking advantage fades
Airlines in India are changing their pricing strategies, maintaining high fares for both early and last-minute bookings. The reduced capacity and uncertainty in fuel costs are the main factors influencing these pricing changes. As competition dwindles, fewer options are available for travelers, leading to increased prices. Experts predict that 2027 may also witness higher airfares without increased capacity in the market.
Govt may consider ATF price stabilisation fund for airlines amid soaring fuel costs
Amid increasing jet fuel prices, the Indian government is exploring options to stabilize aviation turbine fuel costs. The discussions involve airlines and oil marketing companies due to the impact of geopolitical tensions. Recently, IndiGo announced a rise in fuel surcharges for their flights resulting from volatile ATF pricing. The Federation of Indian Airlines requested a review of the jet fuel pricing formula to alleviate financial pressure.
DGCA's regulatory monitoring not a fresh finding of safety deficiencies: SpiceJet
SpiceJet said that the DGCA's regulatory monitoring should not indicate new safety issues. The airline clarified that safety audits and surveillance are routine actions by the DGCA. It said that previous regulatory reviews have not revealed new safety concerns. SpiceJet's domestic market share fell recently, reflecting its operational challenges. Additionally, the company's shares experienced a decline in late afternoon trade.
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‘We had no idea if he would survive. We started crying a lot’: Smit Machchhar’s family recalls agonising wait on September 30
Captain Smit Machchhar became a hero after averting a disaster involving 174 people on a flight. His family faced a difficult journey as they rushed to his hospital bedside in Saudi Arabia. Smit was later airlifted to Abu Dhabi for treatment, where his condition is improving. While receiving numerous calls from world leaders, he maintained his composure despite the pain from deep wounds.
Civil Aviation Ministry, airlines to discuss Mumbai airport issues on October 6
The Civil Aviation Ministry is set to hold discussions with airlines concerning the impending shift of international flights, which may take effect on October 25. There are plans to relocate these operations to Navi Mumbai airport or reduce them by a third. Airlines have expressed worries about how these alterations could affect their services and the convenience of their passengers.
Airlines need to cut 265 weekly international flights connecting Mumbai airport from Oct 25: Sources
Mumbai's international airport will cut 265 weekly flights from October 25 as Terminal 1 undergoes redevelopment. The airport operator plans to allocate vacated international slots to domestic airlines transitioning from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2. Several airlines, including IndiGo and Air India, will have to reduce their overseas flight numbers significantly. IATA has expressed concerns over the transition framework for moving operations to Navi Mumbai airport.
From Hanuman Chalisa to opening cockpit door: Flydubai pilot recounts terrifying attack to PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar, commending his actions during a mid-air attack. Machchhar, who sustained injuries, managed to open the cockpit door and help passengers intervene. India's ambassador to the UAE reported that Machchhar is now stable and recovering well after the incident. Modi highlighted the pilot's courage, stating it prevented a potential tragedy.
Smit Machchhar’s journey: From ‘why become a pilot?’ to ‘Captain, you are a hero’
Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot praised for helping save a flydubai flight after a violent cockpit attack, had never originally planned to enter aviation. A textile engineer who discovered flying at 19, Machchhar went on to become a Boeing pilot, train on the 737 Max and mentor aspiring aviators, describing the profession as a career in which constant learning and composure are essential.
Speedy recovery of 'global hero' pilot is Mumbai neighbourhood's main concern
Neighbours in Mumbai’s Chembur have rallied around Flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar after reports that he fought back against an alleged cockpit attack during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. As his parents travelled to Saudi Arabia, residents recalled Machchhar’s Mumbai upbringing, aviation journey and years as a SpiceJet pilot.
World is proud of you: Smit Machchhar, pilot from Mumbai's Ghatkopar, becomes global hero
Smit Machchhar, a daring Flydubai pilot, is receiving widespread recognition for his exceptional bravery during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. He bravely subdued his co-pilot, who posed a threat, sustaining injuries in the process. Currently, he is recuperating in a Saudi Arabian hospital, while heartfelt prayers for his swift recovery resonate throughout India.
'Captain Smit Machchhar is a hero': PM Modi hails former pilot SpiceJet pilot aboard Flydubai flight
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery during a Flydubai emergency incident. The captain was injured after his co-pilot attempted to crash the aircraft mid-flight. He managed to send emergency signals and allowed passengers to overpower the assailant. This incident could have resulted in a significant tragedy, but Machchhar's actions saved many lives.
PM Modi speaks to Captain Smit Machchhar's wife and parents, lauds his bravery
Captain Smit Machchhar was injured while preventing a potential disaster aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073. He managed to unlock the cockpit door despite the attack from his co-pilot. His actions enabled passengers and crew to intervene and safely land the aircraft in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Indian officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, praised Machchhar's bravery and commitment to safety. He is currently recovering from his injuries in a local hospital.
Bloodshed at 34,000 feet: Indian pilot braves stabbing to help Dubai flight land safely
An Indian pilot helped thwart an alleged hijacking attempt aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv after the co-pilot reportedly attacked him in the cockpit. The Boeing 737 MAX 8, carrying around 174 passengers, diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed safely after passengers and other pilots intervened.
Boeing’s latest 737 MAX glitch hits close to home as Indian airlines bet hundreds of planes on the jet
Boeing identified a software issue affecting 737 MAX aircraft during specific landing scenarios, impacting airlines heavily investing in them. Air India Express and Akasa Air operate around 96 of these aircraft, with hundreds more on order. Boeing is developing a software fix while ensuring pilots can still land safely without automated assistance. Indian carriers have a significant backlog of Boeing orders, reflecting demand for the 737 MAX.
India's small-town aviation push enters big new phase as Centre prepares to take UDAN wider and deeper
As many as 21 new memorandums of understanding have been signed between the ministry, participating states and UTs and the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the implementing agency for the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme.
Delhi Airport assists passengers following operational disruption of SpiceJet flights
Delhi Airport is assisting passengers affected by SpiceJet flight disruptions. The airline faces ongoing financial and operational difficulties, impacting its fleet. The government is pushing SpiceJet to increase its operations and address finances. SpiceJet is seeking funds through the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme. Authorities continue to engage with airlines on operational and financial challenges.
SpiceJet Dubai flights face inordinate delay; passengers protest at Delhi airport
Around 200 SpiceJet passengers protested at Delhi airport after two Dubai-bound flights faced repeated rescheduling and lengthy delays. SpiceJet blamed the disruption on an aircraft grounding and said it was arranging alternative flights for affected passengers.
China-Southern Airlines announces resumption of Guangzhou-New Delhi flights ahead of President Xi's Delhi visit
This marks the relaunch of China Southern's India service after a six-year suspension. Following the restart, the airline will run over 100 weekly flights across its eight round-trip routes in South Asia, the carrier said.
Can IndiGo shares fly again amid soaring oil prices? Ambit remains bullish but lists 5 key risks
InterGlobe Aviation shares have fallen 8% in a month as oil prices topped $100, capping near-term upside. Ambit retains its Buy call, citing IndiGo’s market-share gains, strong aircraft order book and long-term growth prospects despite fuel, forex and competitive risks.
Govt in touch with SpiceJet over operational, financial challenges; Airline seeks funds under ECLGS scheme
SpiceJet is seeking funds through the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme. The government is pushing the airline to increase its operational capacity. Discussions are ongoing regarding SpiceJet's financial and operational challenges. The Civil Aviation Minister confirmed these interactions with the airline. The government monitors airfares and has an ATF price stabilisation scheme.
SpiceJet finalises lease agreements for 20 aircraft ahead of winter schedule, targets 200 daily flights
SpiceJet is adding twenty aircraft to its fleet by mid-November. These planes will enhance capacity for the upcoming winter schedule and holiday travel. The airline aims for two hundred daily flights during this peak period. This expansion will strengthen both domestic and international network operations. The new capacity will help stabilize the market and ease airfare pressures.
SpiceJet seeks extension of time to deposit ₹50 crore in KAL Airways dispute; Delhi HC declines to interfere at this stage
The Delhi High Court declined to issue an interim order regarding SpiceJet's delayed payment. SpiceJet sought more time to deposit the first installment due to delayed funds. The airline expects a second tranche of credit to be released soon. The court will consider SpiceJet's bona fides on September 21. KAL Airways and Maran can take appropriate legal steps.
Delhi rains disrupt flights: 15 Delhi-bound flights diverted; Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet issue advisories
Heavy rain battered Delhi-NCR on Monday, causing widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions. Fifteen Delhi-bound flights were diverted due to adverse weather conditions impacting operations. Airlines issued travel advisories, urging passengers to check flight statuses before departing. The weather office issued red and orange alerts for thunderstorms and strong winds.
SpiceJet adds 8 new flights from Jaipur to Varanasi, Ahmedabad as part of its winter plan
SpiceJet is expanding its flight network with eight new routes starting November 15, 2024, utilizing its 78-seater Q400 aircraft. These additions complement the 32 winter flights announced earlier, including domestic and international connections. The airline aims to enhance connectivity and offer more travel choices, particularly in tier-II cities, through its expanded winter schedule.
SpiceJet to launch 42 new flights between July 10 and 30
The budget carrier said it has also introduced flights on the Kolkata-Patna, Patna-Surat, Surat-Patna, Patna-Kolkata, Ahmedabad Udaipur, Udaipur-Ahmedabad and Bengaluru-Kochi routes for the first time on its network.
SpiceJet to launch Kathmandu-Kolkata flight next month
The airline has offered an introductory promotional fare of Rs 99, excluding taxes for Bagdogra-Kathmandu segment of the journey.
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