SpiceJet likely to switch from all Boeing to Airbus narrow body fleet: CAPA

Airline currently uses a mix of Boeing 737s, Bombardier Q400 turbo prop planes

SpiceJet is expected to order close to 50 Airbus 320s and make a transition from all  Boieng to all Airbus fleet, Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation has said in its latest report. SpiceJet uses a mix of Boeing 737s and Bombardier Q400 turbo prop planes.

 

In a report relased on Monday CAPA said SpiceJet is currently developing a fleet plan for beyond 2017 and is likely to finalise an order for 50 A320s and A320neos by next month. The report said the airline may at the same time announce plans to eventually transition to an all‐Airbus narrow body fleet.

 

"Switching manufacturers would be a major strategic decision and one which would introduce significant operational challenges that will place great pressure on management capabilities in the short‐term. As a result of the move to Airbus narrow bodies we do not rule out the possibility of SpiceJet transitioning to ATRs in the medium term for its regional fleet, which currently consists of 15 Q400s,'' CAPA said in its report.

 

SpiceJet spokesperson did not respond to a text message seeking comments.

 

The report also said IndiGo, the largest domestic airline by market share, is IndiGo is likely to go in for an IPO in 2015. The airline is seeking financing for close to 25 of 180 A320/320 neos ordered in 2011 and may need to increase its equity base in order to support this. The carrier has  sought permission from the Reserve Bank of India to raise USD760 million through external commercial borrowings. "We expect IndiGo to be in the market for capital in FY15 with an IPO being a possibility,'' CAPA said.