SpiceJet, an Indian low-cost airline, will return three of its grounded Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to service by April 2025. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to restore the airline’s fleet and expand operations following several challenging years.
The airline has entered into a service agreement with StandardAero Inc., a U.S.-based engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider. StandardAero, a CFM “Premier MRO” provider for CFM LEAP-1B engines, will collaborate with CFM International, the engine’s original equipment manufacturer, to provide materials and support services for the restoration of the LEAP-1B engines powering SpiceJet’s 737 MAX aircraft. This agreement is supported by an arrangement with the lessor of the aircraft.
“We are pleased to announce this important milestone in our fleet restoration efforts,” said Ajay Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of SpiceJet. “The collaboration with StandardAero, CFM International, and the lessor is a testament to our commitment to make progressive moves and ensuring the timely return to service of our aircraft.”
SpiceJet’s fleet restoration efforts have gained momentum in recent months. The airline has resolved disputes with several prominent lessors, including Export Development Canada, Engine Lease Finance Corporation, and others.
“The return of three fuel-efficient 737 MAX aircraft will not only strengthen our operations but also provide a significant boost to our financial health,” Singh added.
The reintroduction of the 737 MAX aircraft aligns with SpiceJet’s network expansion strategy. The airline has added more than 50 new flights in the past two months, and the return of these aircraft is expected to further fuel this growth, according to Simple Flying.
“We are delighted to partner with SpiceJet and contribute towards their impressive and extraordinary journey of recovery,” said Lewis Prebble, President – Airlines & Fleets for StandardAero Inc. “We look forward to expanding our relationship by providing MRO services supporting LEAP-1B engines, as well as collaborating on their other fleet types.”
According to data from Planespotters.net, SpiceJet currently operates a fleet of seven Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, all of them parked. It also operates a fleet of Boeing 737 Next Generation and De Havilland Canada DHC-8-400 planes.
The Boeing 737 MAX was subject to a global grounding following two fatal accidents involving other airlines in 2018 and 2019. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) lifted the ban on 737 MAX operations in August 2021 after safety modifications and updated pilot training were implemented.
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