Transportation
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Updated on 13 Nov 2025, 07:16 am
Reviewed By
Satyam Jha | Whalesbook News Team
SpiceJet has significantly expanded its operational fleet by inducting five additional Boeing 737 aircraft, including a Boeing 737 MAX. This brings the total number of operational aircraft to 35 and represents the 15th fleet addition in just over a month, including the reactivation of a grounded MAX.
These new planes have already begun commercial operations, boosting connectivity on busy domestic and international routes. This rapid expansion is designed to support SpiceJet's winter schedule, catering to the anticipated surge in passenger traffic during the festive and holiday seasons. The airline has increased its daily flight operations from 100 to 176 flights.
Despite the operational expansion, SpiceJet reported a net loss of ₹447.70 crore for the quarter ended September 30, 2025 (Q2 FY26), a slight increase from ₹424.26 crore in the previous year. The loss was attributed to costs associated with recalibrating dollar obligations, maintaining grounded aircraft, and other operational expenses. Airspace restrictions also contributed to higher costs.
Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh stated that the September quarter was focused on groundwork, with these fleet additions being strategic investments for future growth. He expressed confidence in a trajectory towards improved operational and financial performance in the latter half of the fiscal year.
The news of fleet expansion led to a 3.72% surge in SpiceJet's share price during early trade, with the stock trading at ₹36.80.
Impact This news is significant for the Indian aviation sector and SpiceJet investors. The fleet expansion and increased flights positively signal demand response and operational capability. However, the sustained net losses present a major challenge. The market's positive reaction suggests investor optimism regarding the future turnaround, but profitability remains the key concern. The news impacts SpiceJet's valuation and potential short-term stock movements. Rating: 7/10
Difficult Terms Damp Lease: A lease agreement where the lessor provides the aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance. Boeing 737 MAX: A specific model of narrow-body jet airliner manufactured by Boeing, known for its fuel efficiency and range. Ungrounded and Reactivation: Referring to aircraft that were previously taken out of service (grounded) and have now been restored to operational status. Passenger Revenue Per Available Seat Kilometre (PAX RASK): A key airline metric measuring revenue generated per passenger for each kilometer flown. Passenger Load Factor (PLF): The percentage of a commercial aircraft's carrying capacity (in terms of seats or weight) that is actually utilized by passengers. Ex-Forex: Excluding foreign exchange fluctuations. Recalibrating Dollar-Based Future Obligations: Adjusting or renegotiating financial commitments that are denominated in US dollars and due in the future, likely due to currency exchange rate changes. RTS (Readiness to Serve): Often refers to costs associated with preparing aircraft and operations for service. Airspace Restrictions: Limitations imposed on flight paths or areas where aircraft can fly, often due to security, political, or environmental reasons.