SpiceJet is leasing six Boeing 737-800 aircraft from Singapore-based firm BOC Aviation to expand its route network.
SpiceJet has taken delivery of the first of the six aircraft, with the balance to be delivered next year, a BOC Aviation spokesperson said.
“BOC Aviation welcomes a new customer in SpiceJet, as we grow our fleet and strengthen our position,” said Robert Martin, Managing Director and CEO of BOC Aviation which is owned 100 per cent by the Bank of China.
The company is a leading aircraft leasing company with a portfolio of 231 owned and managed aircraft operated by 56 airlines and 33 countries worldwide, with the average aircraft age being about four years. It has another 106 aircraft on firm order.
SpiceJet officials had last month said the airline planned to add seven Boeing 737s to its fleet in the current financial year to strengthen domestic and international operations. All its Boeing 737-800s are 189-seaters in all-economy configuration.
The airline, which currently flies to 10 international destinations, is also eyeing the markets of Thailand, China and Iraq.
Last year, the Kalanithi Maran-owned budget carrier had added four Boeing aircraft and eight Bombardier Q400s, taking the total fleet size to 54. Of these, 15 are Bombardiers and rest Boeing.
