SpiceJet to revive 3 grounded 737 MAX aircraft by April

SpiceJet has entered into a services agreement with StandardAero Inc., a U.S.-based engine MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) provider, to enable the restoration of SpiceJet's grounded Boeing 737-8 MAX fleet.

The agreement follows successful arrangements with CFM International, Inc., the maker of LEAP-1B engines, and the lessor for the 737 MAX aircraft. These developments pave the way for the un-grounding and return to service of three Boeing 737 MAX aircraft by April 2025, the low-cost carrier says in a statement.

This initiative is a part of SpiceJet's strategic efforts to restore its fleet, enhance operational capabilities, and support its rapid expansion plans.

As part of the deal, CFM International will provide material and support services for these LEAP-1B engines for restoration of the engines.

In the past two months, SpiceJet has resolved disputes with multiple lessors, including Export Development Canada, Engine Lease Finance Corporation, Babcock & Brown Aircraft Management, Aircastle (Ireland), Wilmington Trust SP Services (Dublin) Limited, Shannon Engine Support Limited and Genesis.

“These agreements underscore the airline’s single-minded focus on achieving operational resilience and sustainable growth and its relentless efforts to restore its fleet and expand its operations,” the airline says.

“We are pleased to announce this important milestone in our fleet restoration efforts. 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. 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,” says Ajay Singh, chairman and managing director, SpiceJet.

SpiceJet says it has embarked on a multi-pronged approach to fleet restoration. “With the upcoming return of these fuel-saving aircraft, the airline is poised to gain formidable position in the aviation market. SpiceJet’s network expansion strategy has already resulted in the addition of more than 50 new flights in the past two months, and the return of these aircraft will further fuel this momentum,” the budget carrier says.

“The airline’s efforts are progressing in the right direction, with significant progress being made in a short period. The return to service of the three 737 MAX aircraft will further augment SpiceJet's operations, enabling the airline to offer its passengers more flights, destinations, and frequencies,” it says.

The 737 MAX was grounded around the world in March 2019 following two crashes involving Lion Air flight JT610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET302. The ban was finally lifted in December 2020 after Boeing rectified the problems that led to the crashes.