New Delhi, October 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
SpiceJet’s share of India’s domestic aviation market fell to 0.6 per cent in September, slipping below regional carrier Star Air’s 0.7 per cent for the first time, according to data released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The decline comes as the financially stressed airline continues to face operational challenges, including aircraft remaining grounded and flight cancellations that have disrupted passengers’ travel plans.
SpiceJet carried approximately 7.3 lakh passengers in September, compared with 59.2 lakh in January, reflecting a steep contraction in its passenger numbers over the period.
The airline’s market share fell from 3.9 per cent in January and February to 1.2 per cent in August before dropping to 0.6 per cent in September. In contrast, Star Air’s share, which stood at 0.6 per cent in January, remained largely between 0.5 and 0.6 per cent in the following months before reaching 0.7 per cent in June. It maintained that level through September.
India’s domestic airlines collectively carried 11.823 million passengers in September, a decline of 6.49 per cent year-on-year, the DGCA data showed. High airfares, rising fuel costs and rupee depreciation continued to weigh on the sector.
For January to September, domestic passenger traffic declined 0.82 per cent year-on-year to 122.35 million, compared with 123.37 million in the corresponding period last year.
SpiceJet has also faced regulatory scrutiny. In July, the Central Consumer Protection Authority imposed a penalty of Rs 1 lakh on the airline for alleged deceptive design practices, or “dark patterns”, on its booking platform. The regulator cited automatic enrolment in its loyalty programme and pre-selected options for promotional communications.
The latest figures underline the growing pressure on SpiceJet as it seeks to stabilise operations and regain its position in India’s competitive aviation market.
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