Budget carrier SpiceJet has welcomed new aircraft to boost its operations with the finalisation of a lease agreement for the induction of two wide-body A340 aircraft into its fleet. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing service standards and maximising revenue streams, particularly during the upcoming Haj operations.
The airline plans to deploy these wide-body aircraft from both Srinagar and Guwahati.
Last year’s Haj operations proved to be highly successful for SpiceJet, generating a substantial revenue of INR 337 Crore. With the induction of the A340 aircraft, the airline aims to replicate and surpass this success in the current year’s operations.
Chandan Sand, Head of Leasing and Legal at SpiceJet, expressed his satisfaction with the lease agreement, stating, “We are delighted to announce the finalization of the lease agreement for the introduction of two wide-body A340 aircraft into our fleet. These aircraft will not only enhance our capacity to serve passengers but also elevate our service standards, ensuring a memorable travel experience for pilgrims.”
Sand further emphasised SpiceJet’s commitment to expansion and growth in the aviation industry, mentioning ongoing efforts to secure long-term lease agreements to bolster the fleet and expand the network.
Flight services were suspended at the airport, which has a table-top runway, six months back owing to some operational reasons. The flight services could have resumed a bit earlier but that could not happen due to some work at the airport, Grover said, adding the work has been completed now.
The wide-body A340 aircraft, each boasting a seating capacity of 324 passengers, will play a crucial role in SpiceJet’s Haj operations. The first phase of these operations is scheduled to commence on May 9, 2024, with flights to Medina. SpiceJet plans to operate these special Haj flights from seven Indian cities, including Srinagar, Gaya, Guwahati, Bhopal, Indore, Aurangabad, and Vijayawada.In the previous year, SpiceJet operated over 200 special Haj flights, facilitating the travel of more than 21,000 pilgrims. With the introduction of the wide-body A340 aircraft, the airline aims to enhance its capabilities and contribute significantly to the success and convenience of the Haj operations this year.
