SpiceJet stuck in debt; flight services disrupted, passengers stranded 

KOCHI: SpiceJet is facing severe operational challenges as its financial crisis and outstanding liabilities worsen. The airline is struggling to clear its dues to airports and is also reportedly failing to pay its employees’ salaries on time.

Dubai International Airport had the other day prevented a SpiceJet aircraft from landing because the airline had not cleared its outstanding dues. The aircraft was eventually allowed to land after the payment was made. Following the crisis, the Kochi–Fujairah flight service was also cancelled. The authorities have informed that the Kochi–Fujairah flight, scheduled to depart at 1:30 am tonight, would instead leave at 1:30 am tomorrow.

Passengers scheduled to travel on SpiceJet flights were also stranded at airports the other day. Those scheduled to fly to Fujairah at 11:30 pm and passengers who were supposed to fly to Dubai at 1 am were among those affected. The frequent delays of SpiceJet flights are causing considerable inconvenience to passengers.

Despite repeated complaints, CIAL (Cochin International Airport Limited) and the terminal manager have not yet intervened in the matter. SpiceJet employees also remain mum on the issue. Employees who say they have been working without salaries for the past four months are advising passengers to look for alternative travel arrangements.

At Cochin International Airport, SpiceJet’s operations are also limited. The airline does not even have an office at the airport and has only 14 employees working there. Reports also indicate that the company owes lakhs of rupees not only to airports but also to hotels that provide accommodation for its employees.