Business & Finance

SpiceJet Faces Pilot Strike Over Unpaid Salaries Amid Operational Strain

By Sneha Biswas

SpiceJet, once India’s third‑largest airline, is confronting a series of operational difficulties. About 40 pilots operating the airline’s Q400 aircraft have refused to fly until their pending salaries are paid, according to PTI. The pilots received support from the Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA India), which offered assistance in resolving the salary dispute. In a letter dated 9 October, ALPA India expressed solidarity with the pilots and pledged logistical, professional and consultative help. The pilots’ body said they were protecting their rights, professional dignity and aviation safety standards, noting that they had been working under considerable stress and uncertainty due to ongoing financial and operational challenges. The letter also cited reports of unpaid vendors refusing to provide essential aircraft‑related services, delayed salaries and outstanding employee benefits, describing the working environment as increasingly difficult.

SpiceJet is also struggling financially and operationally. Planespotters.net data shows the airline has 10 operational aircraft, including two Q400s, while 37 aircraft remain parked. The limited fleet adds to the carrier’s challenges as it tries to maintain services under financial pressure.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is monitoring the situation. According to DGCA data, SpiceJet’s share of the domestic aviation market fell to 1.2% in August 2026, compared with Akasa Air’s 5.5%, moving the airline from third to fourth largest in India.

Financially, SpiceJet reported a consolidated net loss of ₹261.38 crore in the December 2025 quarter, compared with a net profit of ₹20.43 crore in the same period a year earlier. The loss narrowed from ₹621.29 crore in the September 2025 quarter.

The government has extended the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) to airlines facing financial difficulties amid the West Asia crisis. SpiceJet received ₹150 crore under the scheme to help manage payment obligations amid the West Asia conflict and rising aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices.

SpiceJet shares fell 1.49% to ₹8.62 on Tuesday at 11.58 am, compared with the previous close of ₹8.75.