SpiceJet’s recovery takes flight as market share doubles

GURUGRAM: SpiceJet has staged a sharp domestic comeback, more than doubling its market share in just three months as rapid capacity expansion restores the airline’s presence across key routes.

India’s low-cost carrier lifted its domestic market share from 1.9 per cent in September 2025 to 4.3 per cent by December, driven by a 56 per cent rise in capacity during the third quarter following the induction of 16 aircraft.

The capacity surge translated into a broader network, tighter schedules and stronger passenger traction, helping the airline regain lost ground in several high-traffic markets.

Momentum has continued into the current quarter. SpiceJet doubled its available seat kilometres (ASKMs) from about 55 crore to 105 crore, marking a significant strengthening of its operational footprint. Over the full year, the airline plans to more than double capacity again, targeting 220 crore ASKs by winter 2026 and operating over 300 daily flights.

To support the expansion, SpiceJet is working to scale its fleet to around 60 aircraft through a mix of wet and damp leases, alongside the phased return of grounded planes. The airline has also signed a memorandum of understanding for the induction of 10 additional aircraft.

SpiceJet chief business officer Debojo Maharshi, said the rapid rise in market share reflected steady progress in rebuilding capacity and restoring network depth. The airline’s focus, he added, remained on improving reliability, strengthening connectivity and scaling operations in a measured and sustainable manner.