SpiceJet Market Share Doubles to 4.3%; Airline Targets 2.2 Billion ASKs Capacity by Winter 2026

SpiceJet has reported that its domestic market share more than doubled to 4.3% in December 2025 from 1.9% in September 2025, according to a press release by the company. The Gurugram-headquartered carrier attributed this improvement to a rapid operational recovery and capacity-led growth.

The filing stated that the recovery was driven by a 56% expansion in capacity during October-December. This growth was supported by the induction of 16 aircraft during the period. The company noted that the increase in flying resulted in a wider network, improved schedules, and stronger passenger traction across key markets.

Available Seat Kilometres (ASKMs)—a key metric for airline capacity—rose from approximately 550 million to 1.05 billion in the quarter ended December, reflecting a significant strengthening of the network. SpiceJet stated it plans to more than double its capacity over the course of the year, targeting 2.2 billion Available Seat Kilometres by Winter 2026. This expansion strategy aims to operate over 300 daily flights across its network to secure further market share gains.

To support this expansion, the airline intends to ramp up its fleet to around 60 aircraft. The filing specified that this will be achieved through a mix of wet and damp leases, alongside the phased return to service of existing grounded aircraft. The company also disclosed that it had received a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the induction of 10 aircraft.

Debojo Maharshi, Chief Business Officer, SpiceJet, said: “The sharp rise in our market share over a short period reflects the progress we have made in rebuilding capacity and restoring our network. Doubling capacity in the last quarter and expanding our fleet during October-December have helped us regain presence across key routes. As we work towards more than doubling our capacity this year, our focus remains on strengthening connectivity, improving reliability and scaling up in a measured and sustainable manner.”

The regulatory filing described SpiceJet as an IATA-IOSA certified airline operating a fleet of Boeing 737s and Q-400s. It identified the carrier as a regional player participating in the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme, with a majority of its fleet offering 'SpiceMax' seating.

The company cautioned that statements concerning future growth prospects were forward-looking and subject to risks. According to the disclaimer in the release, uncertainties included fluctuations in earnings, foreign exchange rates, and wages; the ability to manage growth and international operations; and intense competition in the aviation sector affecting cost advantages. The airline noted that factors such as the ability to attract highly skilled professionals, time and cost overruns, reduced demand for air travel, liability for damages, withdrawal of governmental fiscal incentives, political instability, legal restrictions on raising capital, and general economic conditions could affect the realisation of these targets.