SpiceJet has won board approval for a fresh order of 30 Boeing 737-800s.
Deliveries to the Indian carrier are scheduled to begin in 2014 as it sees a "strong resurgence in domestic air traffic". SpiceJet estimates 16% domestic growth in the Indian market this year and a 12%-14% annual growth going forward.
SpiceJet says it is in the midst of evaluating a "far more aggressive" fleet expansion over the next 18-24 months than originally planned. SpiceJet currently operates 21 737-800s/900s and plans to take delivery of seven additional aircraft through 2012.
The new order from SpiceJet follows a 38% acquisition of the carrier in June by Kalanithi Maran, who owns the Chennai-based Sun TV network.
By the end of next month SpiceJet is expected to name a new CEO to replace Sanjay Aggarwal, who resigned earlier this month. Sources have also indicated SpiceJet could also be renamed Sun Airways.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
