Vistara & Lufthansa Expands Their Codeshare Partnership to Enhance Flight Connectivity to Europe

Vistara, India's leading full-service carrier, has expanded its codeshare partnership with Lufthansa, one of Europe's premier airlines, enabling enhanced connectivity to Vistara customers while travelling across Europe. The bilateral codeshare agreement between Vistara and Lufthansa enables both airlines to sell flights on each other's networks, offering convenient travel options to customers.

Now, the 12 key destinations that get included in Vistara’s network are Amsterdam (AMS), Stockholm (ARN), Berlin (BER), Budapest (BUD), Copenhagen (CPH), Rome (FCO), Hamburg (HAM), Helsinki (HEL), Lisbon (LIS), Munich (MUC), Oslo (OSL), Prague (PRG), according to a company press release.

Deepak Rajawat, Chief Commercial Officer, Vistara, said, "We are delighted to further strengthen our partnership with Lufthansa, one of the world’s leading airlines. This is a testament to our continued commitment to offer enhanced connectivity, world-class service and a wide range of options to our customers. This enables our customers to conveniently book their itineraries and seamlessly travel across various parts of Europe on the joint network of Vistara and Lufthansa.”

Vistara, which is also a joint venture of Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, and Lufthansa had entered into a unilateral codeshare agreement, in 2019, enabling the latter to add its designator code (LH) to Vistara flights for 18 destinations in India. Codesharing allows an airline to book its passengers on its partner carriers and provides seamless travel to destinations where it has no presence.

Jeffrey James, Head of Communications APAC & Chief Spokesperson, Lufthansa Group, said, "We take pride in our relationships and India our partnership with Vistara embodies our strong commitment to the country. As the third largest aviation market globally, India remains a key focus for our Group and we are delighted to further strengthen our relationship with Vistara, offering Indian travellers more choice, more options and more connectivity between Europe and the subcontinent.”

Vistara has consistently focused on expanding its international reach and delivering exceptional service to its customers. The expansion of the codeshare partnership with Lufthansa is a strategic move that aligns with Vistara's growth strategy and its goal of connecting India to key global destinations. With this bilateral codeshare agreement, Vistara continues to establish itself as a leading player, in the Indian aviation industry, known for its commitment to service excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Lufthansa operates a diverse fleet of A320 family jets, the A330, A340, A350, and 787 for its operations. Meanwhile, Vistara operates a fleet of 787s, A320 family jets, and a few 737s. Apart from Lufthansa, Vistara has codeshare partnerships with British Airways, Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines and United Airlines.

No US expansion

Vistara, a joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, has a fleet of 61 planes and no aircraft are on the ground, he added. The fleet has three owned and one leased wide-body aircraft. Kannan said the airline has decided not to fly to the US as planned earlier. "The main reason is that to fly to the US, I need a lot of aircraft. One single daily operation from India to the US will need at least three aircraft. I have to wait for three aircraft to come and I don't know if it will be spaced out. By the time it will start, the integration (will be) happening," he noted.

In 2021, Vistara formally applied for DOT permission, which was granted promptly. But its plans were affected due to the non-availability of long-haul aircraft to operate these flights. Interestingly, it wasn’t COVID that played a role in this, but the production and delivery delays by Boeing for its Dreamliners forced the airline to postpone its plans.

Against the backdrop of the ongoing process of merger with Air India, post which the Vistara brand will cease to exist, Kannan said the people who built the Vistara brand are going to be there and it is always good to leave on a high. To a query on what the Vistara brand is, he said it is "something that was built with a lot of attention, care, attention, pain, sweat, money and a lot of money was put in. Thankfully, we are in a situation where people realise that we are a good brand to travel with. Air India needs people from Vistara. They are growing... whether people have the job, is not the issue. The issue is what job they will have," he said.

Future of Vistara

In November 2022, Tata Group announced the merger of Vistara with Air India, and under the deal, Singapore Airlines will have a 25.1% stake in Air India. Subject to regulatory approvals, the deal is expected to be complete by March 2024. Singapore Airlines will invest INR 2,059 crore in Air India. 

The Vistara chief said airfares are always a matter of supply and demand. "Airfares are sky high because of a few reasons. One is Go First as on routes they were operating, capacity has come down; secondly, the seasonality demand, in May, all the destinations Go First used to fly are super peak... as much as we want, capacity has not come back to the same extent as what Go First has taken away. Biggest solution (to have) is capacity addition," he said.

“The integration process has finally begun. Multiple things need to happen. For example, we need to apply for several approvals, like from the competition authorities, ministries and so on,” Vistara CEO Vinod Kannan told ATW on the sidelines of the IATA AGM in Istanbul. “We expect approvals, assuming everything goes right, in a matter of three to five months,” he said. If the process goes as planned, the integration could be complete in nine to 12 months.

Until then, Vistara continues to operate independently. The carrier recently took delivery of a fourth Boeing 787-9 and launched five weekly Mumbai-London Heathrow services on June 1, which will increase to daily when the carrier receives a fifth 787-9. 

Airbus, one of the world's leading aircraft manufacturers, has long been known for its commitment to innovation and excellence in the aviation industry. Recently, they took a bold step by deciding to deliver an A321neo jetliner manufactured in China to a European customer. This move is a strategic response to the challenges faced by Airbus in delivering new aircraft to their customers and an opportunity to optimize their global manufacturing network.

Aircraft Delivery Challenges

Airbus has found it increasingly challenging to deliver new aircraft to customers due to issues such as supply chain interruptions, logistical complexity, and production delays. These roadblocks frequently result in dissatisfied consumers and impede the timely expansion of airlines' fleets. To address these issues, Airbus has been exploring innovative solutions to improve its delivery efficiency.

The A321neo: A Game-Changing Aircraft

The A321neo, a variant of the successful A320neo family, represents a significant advancement in aircraft design and performance. This next-generation aircraft incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including fuel-efficient engines and aerodynamic improvements, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions. With its extended range and enhanced passenger comfort, the A321neo has become a preferred choice for airlines seeking to optimize their operations and provide an exceptional travel experience.

The Airbus Tianjin Plant: A Manufacturing Powerhouse

A Thriving Partnership

The Airbus Tianjin plant, established in 2008, has played a pivotal role in the company's production capabilities. This joint venture with Chinese partners has enabled Airbus to tap into the vast potential of the Chinese aviation market and leverage the expertise of local talent. The facility has become a symbol of collaboration and innovation, fostering mutual growth for both Airbus and China.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure

Equipped with cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art facilities, the Airbus Tianjin plant boasts an impressive manufacturing setup. The plant adheres to Airbus' stringent quality standards while ensuring efficient production processes. It serves as a prime example of how global manufacturers can establish successful operations in strategic locations worldwide.

Production Upgrade

Airbus stated in November of last year that the Tianjin A320 series aircraft final assembly line would be adapted and upgraded to handle the A321 type. It is worth mentioning that, after the completion of the Tianjin factory's refurbishment last year, the current final assembly facility in Toulouse is also approaching completion. Airbus' worldwide industrial system will have the capability for A321 aircraft assembly, fulfilling the company's production capacity targets and satisfying the growing market demand for the A321 type.

Addressing Aircraft Delivery Challenges

Meeting Customer Demands

Airbus has been actively working to streamline its aircraft delivery processes to meet the increasing demand from customers. By utilizing the manufacturing capabilities in the Tianjin plant, the company has expanded its capacity to deliver aircraft promptly, ensuring customer satisfaction and fostering long-term relationships.

Optimizing the Supply Chain

To enhance its delivery capabilities, Airbus has focused on optimizing its global supply chain. By leveraging its manufacturing facilities in different regions, the company aims to reduce logistical challenges and improve lead times. The delivery of the A321neo jetliner from China to Europe exemplifies this approach, showcasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the optimized supply chain.

Delivery to Wizz Air

Wizz Air, a well-established European airline, is known for its extensive network and low-cost business model, making it a popular choice among travelers. The delivery of the A321neo showcases Airbus' commitment to serving its European customers efficiently and meeting their evolving demands for advanced aircraft technology. It stated that it is a customer for the A321neo manufactured at Airbus' Tianjin final assembly facility but declined to elaborate. According to FlightRadar24.com, the Airbus A321neo, manufactured for European low-cost airline Wizz Air, successfully completed its maiden test flight on June 9th. Airbus delivered the first A321neo aircraft manufactured at the Tianjin final assembly facility to China Eastern Airlines on March 24th of this year. The Tianjin facility has been in service for almost 14 years, having completed the final assembly and delivery of approximately 600 A320 series aircraft since the first A320 aircraft was delivered in 2009.

Strengthening the Global Manufacturing Network

The delivery of an A321neo jetliner from Airbus' Tianjin plant to Wizz Air underscores the importance of a robust and well-connected global manufacturing network. By strategically distributing production facilities across multiple locations, Airbus can minimize transportation time, optimize supply chain logistics, and enhance customer satisfaction. This approach also helps Airbus address geopolitical factors and market dynamics that may impact its operations in a specific region.

Conclusion

Airbus' milestone delivery of an A321neo jetliner manufactured in China to Wizz Air signifies a significant achievement for the company. By addressing challenges in aircraft delivery and leveraging its global manufacturing network, Airbus has demonstrated its commitment to meeting customer needs while ensuring operational efficiency. This achievement exemplifies Airbus' innovation skills and forward-thinking attitude as a leading aircraft maker in the aviation sector.

With Inputs from Bloomberg

Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, is one of the leading airlines in the United Arab Emirates. With a reputation for exceptional service and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Etihad Airways continues to expand its global network. In its latest move, the airline aims to enhance its presence in Russia by launching a new route to the beautiful city of St. Petersburg.

Etihad Airways: A Brief Overview

Etihad Airways, founded in 2003, has established itself as a premium airline, offering both domestic and international flights to various destinations worldwide. With its state-of-the-art fleet, attentive cabin crew, and innovative services, Etihad Airways has gained recognition as a preferred choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Etihad is the fifth-largest capacity provider, with a 5.2% market share, after flydubai on 38.3%, Emirates on 31%, Air Arabia on 14.3%, and Aeroflot on 6.8%.

Expansion Plans for the Russia Network

As part of its growth strategy, Etihad Airways has identified Russia as a key market for expansion. With its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and increasing tourism potential, Russia presents a compelling opportunity for the airline to broaden its reach and offer its services to a wider audience. Etihad Airways' decision to launch a new route to St. Petersburg demonstrates the airline's commitment to expanding its Russian network. St. Petersburg, dubbed the "Venice of the North," is a city of spectacular beauty, with gorgeous architecture, world-class museums, and a vibrant cultural scene. By connecting Abu Dhabi to St. Petersburg, Etihad Airways opens up a gateway for travelers to explore this captivating destination.

The new Etihad Airways route to St. Petersburg will begin service on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays on October 29. The flight time from Abu Dhabi International to St. Petersburg is anticipated to be 6 hours and 15 minutes, allowing travellers to get to their destination conveniently and efficiently. The 2,710-mile (2,355-nm) route to St. Petersburg will serve as Etihad's second destination in Russia, joining its existing daily 787-9 flights to Moscow Sheremetyevo. According to OAG Schedules Analyzer data, the carrier expects to boost Moscow frequencies to 10X-weekly during the winter season 2023-24.

Convenience and Connectivity

Etihad Airways aims to provide passengers with seamless travel experiences, and the new route to St. Petersburg is no exception. By expanding its Russia network, the airline offers increased connectivity options for travelers, enabling them to easily access both business and leisure destinations within the region. Whether it's for business meetings, cultural exploration, or connecting flights, Etihad Airways strives to ensure a hassle-free journey for its customers.

Russian Sanctions

The UAE, along with China and India, abstained from a UN Security Council resolution in February 2022 to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine and has taken a neutral stance in the conflict. As a result, the UAE has grown in appeal as a tourist destination for sanctioned Russians. Along with sister UAE-based carriers Air Arabia, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Emirates Airline, and flydubai, Etihad is one of about 50 foreign airlines that continue to serve the country. There are currently around 78,600 weekly seats between the UAE and Russia, representing a 175% increase over the same week in 2019 prior to the epidemic.

Travel Experience with Etihad Airways

When flying with Etihad Airways, passengers can expect a world-class travel experience. From the moment they step on board, they are greeted by friendly and attentive cabin crew who are dedicated to providing exceptional service. The airline's comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment options, and delectable cuisine make the journey enjoyable and memorable. With its commitment to passenger well-being, Etihad Airways has implemented robust health and safety measures to ensure a safe and secure travel environment.

Conclusion

Etihad Airways' expansion of its Russia network with a new route to St. Petersburg reflects the airline's strategic vision and commitment to providing enhanced travel options for its customers. By connecting Abu Dhabi to this captivating city, Etihad Airways opens up exciting possibilities for both business and leisure travelers. With its exceptional service, seamless connectivity, and dedication to passenger comfort, the airline continues to solidify its position as a leading global carrier.

With Inputs from Aviation Week

The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee recently made a decisive move by approving an amendment to increase the retirement age for commercial pilots. This proposed change has garnered both support and opposition within the aviation industry.

The History of the Pilot Retirement Age

The mandatory retirement age for commercial pilots in the United States has been set at 65 for several decades. This age restriction was initially implemented to ensure that pilots maintain the physical and mental fitness necessary for safe flying operations. However, with advancements in healthcare and an overall increase in life expectancy, there have been calls to reevaluate this age restriction.

The Retirement Age Increase Proposal

The decision by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to raise the statutory retirement age for commercial pilots from 65 to 67 is part of a larger legislative measure aimed at extending the FAA's aviation safety and infrastructure programmes. The amendment seeks to reflect the changing demographics and capabilities of pilots in the modern era. The House committee unanimously adopted the nearly 800-page FAA bill by a vote of 63-0. It is expected to be taken up by the entire House next month. The committee chair, Republican Representative Sam Graves, stated that the measure is "vital to our economy, millions of jobs, and the 850 million passengers who rely on our aviation system every year."

Arguments in Favor of Raising the Retirement Age

Advocates for increasing the pilot retirement age argue that it aligns with changing employment dynamics and individuals' greater life expectancy. They contend that many pilots are still physically and mentally fit to fly beyond the age of 65, and raising the retirement age would allow experienced pilots to continue contributing their skills and knowledge to the industry. "While commercial airline pilots are currently mandated to retire at the age of 65, these same pilots who are forced to retire can still fly corporate and charter jets beyond the age of 65," said Republican Representative Troy Nehls, adding that the move might help address a pilot shortage.

Furthermore, proponents believe that raising the retirement age can help alleviate the pilot shortage issue that the industry has been grappling with in recent years. By retaining experienced pilots for longer periods, airlines can bridge the gap caused by the shortage and maintain a steady supply of qualified pilots. The Regional Airline Association (RAA) applauded the pilot age increase, stating that 324 airports have lost a third of their air operations on average, with more than 400 planes idle owing to a pilot shortage. "Increasing the pilot retirement age keeps experienced pilots, particularly captains, in place," according to the RAA.

Concerns Raised by Critics

Opponents of raising the retirement age raise concerns about potential safety implications. They argue that age-related cognitive and physical dexterity declines may compromise flight safety. Additionally, opponents worry that extending the retirement age could impede opportunities for younger pilots to advance in their careers, as limited vacancies may arise due to fewer retirements. The pilot age proposal faces opposition from unions and an uncertain fate in the United States Senate, which will consider its version of the FAA measure on Thursday and does not currently include the pilot age hike.

The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) is opposed to raising the retirement age, claiming that it will disrupt airline scheduling and pilot training and necessitate the reopening of pilot contracts. Even if the proposal gets approval, the union pointed out that international standards would still prohibit pilots beyond the age of 65 from flying in most nations other than the United States. The proposal was dubbed a "politically motivated choice that betrays a fundamental understanding of airline industry operations, the pilot profession, and safety" by ALPA.

Implications for the Aviation Industry

If the proposal to raise the retirement age for pilots becomes law, it will have far-reaching consequences for the aviation sector. Airlines will be able to retain experienced pilots for extended periods of time, benefiting from their expertise while lowering the expenses involved with training new pilots. This change may also provide pilots with greater financial security as they will be able to continue working and contribute to their retirement funds.

Potential Benefits of the New Retirement Age

One potential benefit of raising the retirement age is the preservation of institutional knowledge within the industry. Experienced pilots possess a wealth of practical insights and lessons learned throughout their careers. By allowing them to continue flying, airlines can tap into this knowledge base, enhancing overall operational efficiency and safety. Moreover, raising the retirement age can lead to more diverse and inclusive work environments. It allows pilots from different age groups to collaborate, share experiences, and learn from each other, fostering a positive and inclusive culture within the aviation community.

Challenges and Considerations

While raising the pilot retirement age offers potential advantages, it is essential to address certain challenges and considerations. Airlines must implement rigorous health assessments and age-specific performance evaluations to ensure that pilots meet the required standards for safe operations. Additionally, ongoing training and development programs can help pilots stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in aviation technology and best practices.

Conclusion

The decision by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to raise the mandatory retirement age for commercial pilots represents a watershed moment in the aviation sector. This decision reflects shifting demographics, medical breakthroughs, and the need to solve the pilot shortage. As the proposed five-year law moves forward, it will be critical to have in-depth discussions about the long-term ramifications for pilots, airlines, and passenger safety.

With Inputs from Reuters

JetBlue has gained a reputation for being a trailblazer in the airline industry. By embracing innovation and creativity, the company has redefined the way passengers experience air travel. JetBlue's commitment to providing exceptional customer service, comfort, and affordability sets it apart from its competitors. The airline consistently seeks new ways to enhance the travel experience, ensuring passengers' needs are met and their expectations are exceeded.

Honoring the Past: JetBlue's Distinctive Designs

JetBlue has a rich history of incorporating unique and eye-catching designs into its aircraft liveries. These designs serve as a tribute to the diverse array of influences that shape JetBlue's identity. From vibrant tailfin patterns representing different cultures to special liveries celebrating important partnerships, JetBlue has always sought to connect with its passengers on a deeper level.

The New "Icon in the Sky" Livery

JetBlue's new standard livery marks an exciting milestone in the airline's journey. The all-blue design signifies JetBlue's strong brand presence and distinguishes it as a symbol of innovation and trust. The livery exemplifies, as a visual representation, JetBlue's commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience. With this bold and recognizable design, JetBlue aims to capture the attention of passengers and stand out in an ever-evolving industry. "Liveries have always been an important part of our culture." When you see a JetBlue plane, whether on the ground or in the sky, we want consumers to recognize us as a travel brand that moves them differently than everyone else," said Jayne O'Brien, JetBlue's head of marketing and loyalty. "The new livery helps us stand out among a sea of legacy carriers, and it is a stunning reflection of our role as a disruptor that uniquely combines lower fares and excellent service."

Expansion into new markets

The new livery serves as a statement of purpose for JetBlue as it strives to develop and broaden its reach. It represents the airline's entry into new markets and preparedness to serve a larger client base. JetBlue's expansion strategy focuses on uncovering untapped prospects and offering customers seamless connection across several locations. JetBlue intends to make a substantial impact in these new regions by using its creative strategy and strong brand recognition.

Customer-Centric Solutions

JetBlue's success can be attributed, in large part, to its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The airline consistently seeks to enhance the travel experience by prioritizing passengers' needs and preferences. Whether it's through personalized service, comfortable cabin interiors, or cutting-edge in-flight entertainment, JetBlue ensures that each passenger feels valued and cared for throughout their journey.

"A Defining MoMint": The First Aircraft with the New Livery

To mark the introduction of the new livery, JetBlue has chosen an Airbus A321 with Mint® as the first aircraft to showcase the design. This aircraft, named "A Defining MoMint," embodies the spirit of JetBlue's commitment to innovation and customer-centricity. Passengers flying on this aircraft will have the opportunity to experience the new livery firsthand and enjoy the exceptional amenities offered by JetBlue's Mint® premium service. The new livery design draws on JetBlue's heritage and distinct personality by reviving old favorites for a new era, such as:

• A blue allover fuselage that fully embraces the company's moniker.
• Iconic tailfin designs have been energized and extended to embrace the aircraft's fuselage and belly.
• An enlarged JetBlue logo to symbolize the significant influence these planes have on the industry.
• Colorful winglets with a refreshed palette of accent colors provide an additional burst of joy.
• The design of the aircraft and the JetBlue emblem on the belly make it instantly recognizable to plane-spotters.

The first design, for the A321 with Mint aircraft, uses JetBlue's Mint Leaves pattern on the aircraft's exterior for the first time, making it easier for customers and crewmembers to recognize. JetBlue's all-core aircraft will also receive new livery designs with refreshed patterns and a more extensive palette of accent colors. In addition to significant outward upgrades, JetBlue has already implemented many interior enhancements to provide passengers with a more comfortable, personalized, and enjoyable travel experience. JetBlue's collaborations deliver meaningful, industry-leading products ranging from free high-speed Fly-Fi® broadband internet[a] to complimentary seatback entertainment.

Refreshing All Standard Liveries

In addition to the debut of the new livery, JetBlue has plans to refresh all of its current standard liveries. As part of its routine aircraft painting cycle, JetBlue will gradually update its fleet with the new design. This process ensures that all aircraft maintain a consistent and fresh appearance, reflecting JetBlue's dedication to providing a visually appealing and modern travel experience.

Conclusion

JetBlue's unveiling of its new all-blue livery marks a significant moment in the airline's history. With this bold design, JetBlue reaffirms its position as an industry disruptor and a brand that passengers love and trust. By expanding into new markets and delivering customer-centric solutions, JetBlue continues to revolutionize air travel. As the new livery takes flight, passengers can look forward to an enhanced travel experience that combines innovation, comfort, and exceptional service.

With Inputs from JetBlue

SpiceJet, the cash-strapped airline, is facing fresh trouble as two aircraft leasing companies, GASL Ireland and VS MSN, have secured a summary judgment worth USD 15 million against the airline in the London High Court. This judgment adds to the list of legal challenges for SpiceJet, as it has been revealed that at least three more cases have been filed against the airline in the commercial courts in London.

During the court proceedings, it was noted that SpiceJet made several attempts to delay the court's timetable. In one instance, the airline's legal team withdrew from the case, citing non-payment of fees. Subsequently, SpiceJet requested additional time, stating that they were in the process of hiring a new legal team. However, the court was unimpressed with these excuses and insisted that the proceedings must continue. As a result, a summary judgment was entered against the airline.

GASL Ireland and VS MSN are expected to seek enforcement of the UK court's judgment through the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in India. Wilmington Services, another party that had obtained a summary judgment against SpiceJet in London, has already approached the NCLT in India.

What Happened With GASL Ireland and VS MSN?

In April 2018, SpiceJet agreed with VS MSN to lease a Boeing 737-700 for 96 months. In the backdrop of Covid-19, there were payment defaults and in November 2020, the parties entered into a rent deferral agreement. A total of USD 1,657,376 was waived under the agreement and further arrangements were agreed which laid down payments in monthly instalments during 2021.

But continued non-payment by SpiceJet leftover USD 4 million outstanding by September 2022. Accordingly, VSN approached the high court in London seeking payment of the outstanding dues. In the beginning, SpiceJet failed to even acknowledge service.

On the other hand, SpiceJet did not submit any report from its expert who inspected the aircraft in Lithuania. This was pointed out by GASL’s barrister Philip Shepherd, KC, who argued that SpiceJet did not submit their expert’s report because it would not have supported the airline’s case that the aircraft met Redelivery Conditions. The court accepted Bull’s evidence in full and entered judgment against SpiceJet in the amount of USD 8,490,312.39.

With the mounting litigation both in the United Kingdom and India, it remains to be seen what arguments SpiceJet will present to defend itself in these legal battles.

Aircastle files second plea against SpiceJet

Reports said that aircraft lessor Aircastle turned up the heat on SpiceJet with a fresh plea filed on June 13. The plea seeks to initiate insolvency proceedings against the airline. SpiceJet has failed to pay its outstanding dues, the lessor alleges in its plea. This is the third such case filed against the airline.

A day earlier, the NCLT had adjourned the hearing of a similar plea filed by lessor Wilmington against the airline. The matter is likely to be listed on July 16. In addition to Aircastle and Wilmington, engine lessor Willis Lease Finance Corporation has also filed a plea with NCLT against SpiceJet. Aircastle (Ireland) filed a CIRP petition against SpiceJet on April 28. The matter is listed for July 17.

SpiceJet, on June 5, had applied in the Aircastle (Ireland) case, questioning the maintainability of the petition. The airline said there were two defects in the petition and argued that "given that the debt fell due on February 2021, it was protected from default under Section 10 of the IBC, 2016." Wilmington and Aircastle (Ireland) had got two aircraft deregistered from DGCA in March under the provisions of Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorisations (IDERA).

Last month, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation deregistered three SpiceJet planes at the lessors’ request, one of which was Wilmington’s. On May 11, SpiceJet said it is taking steps to revive its grounded fleet using the $50 million it received from the government’s Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme and internal cash accruals.

The carrier has maintained that it has no intention of filing for insolvency and is focused on its business. “Wilmington Trust’s parent is Air Castle. Each of the four aircraft leased by Air Castle had a separate entity. One such aircraft was from Wilmington Trust, an affiliate of Air Castle,” a SpiceJet spokesperson had said on Sunday.