SpiceJet has scheduled 44 per cent fewer flights in July compared to April amid a tough operating environment and return of wet leased aircraft.

In fact, the airline’s operating fleet size has shrunk to around 12-13 planes compared to over 30 a few months ago and this has resulted in temporary suspension of services to several destinations including Chennai, Guwahati, Varanasi among others.

Data from aviation analytics firm Cirium shows that SpiceJet has scheduled 2,326 flights in July compared to 4,156 in April - which marks the start of summer schedule.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation data shows a decline in actual operations with 2,956 scheduled departures in May compared to 4,812 in January. The reduction took place as the airline began returning leased planes. At the same time an increase in jet fuel price and depreciating rupee made operating environment tougher.

Fleet reduction has impacted the airline's on-time performance too and, on punctuality, SpiceJet ranks below its competitors. An industry analyst pointed out that SpiceJet schedules are designed for more aircraft than what the airline has at present resulting in delays across the network. This in turn is resulting in passenger ire against the airline.

A SpiceJet executive said flights to Chennai have been temporarily suspended and would resume in October.

“Some of our aircraft are currently undergoing scheduled maintenance, including routine checks and C-Checks, in line with the seasonal reduction in demand. We expect three aircraft to join in July, followed by two in August upon completion of their maintenance checks, and a further two aircraft each in September and October,” he said.

“In addition, we plan to induct 10 aircraft each in October and November under lease arrangements. The lease agreements for these aircraft are currently being finalised and executed, supporting our planned capacity expansion ahead of the peak travel season,” he added.

Published on July 2, 2026