SpiceJet (SG) is preparing to restore around 10 of its grounded aircraft to service by April 2026, with 4–5 aircraft expected to return as early as this winter to meet peak travel demand. The grounded fleet, comprising Boeing 737 NG, Boeing 737 MAX, and Q400 aircraft, has been stationed at airports in Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, adding to the carrier’s rent and maintenance costs.
To accelerate the revival, SpiceJet has already secured engine overhaul and maintenance slots and dispatched 19 engines worldwide for repair seven from Boeing 737 NGs, six from Boeing 737 MAXs, and six from Q400s. Repairs are being undertaken at facilities in the US, Singapore, and through Carlyle Aviation, which is supporting the revival of the 737 NG fleet. In July, the airline received its first two overhauled engines: a CFM LEAP-1B for the Boeing 737 MAX from StandardAero’s Houston facility and one Q400 engine from StandardAero’s Singapore facility. These mark the beginning of a phased engine return that will allow more aircraft to gradually rejoin operations in the coming months.
In parallel with restoring its grounded jets, SpiceJet has also finalized a lease agreement for 10 Boeing 737 aircraft, which will be inducted under damp lease arrangements by October 2025. This move is expected to significantly enhance capacity ahead of the winter schedule, ensuring the airline is well-positioned to serve rising passenger demand during the high-traffic winter and early summer seasons. With these steps, SpiceJet aims to strengthen its operational readiness and maintain competitive edge in India’s fast-growing aviation market.
