SpiceJet has received a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the induction of 10 aircraft, marking another key step in its ongoing capacity expansion and network restoration programme. The move aligns with the airline’s broader strategy to steadily rebuild operations while maintaining cost discipline and operational stability.

The development follows SpiceJet’s Board-approved plan announced last week to progressively scale its fleet to 60 aircraft. This growth will be driven through a mix of wet and damp leases, along with the phased reactivation of grounded aircraft. The latest MoU further strengthens the airline’s intent to accelerate expansion in a measured and structured manner.

SpiceJet’s recovery has gathered pace in recent months, supported by wider network coverage and sharper capacity optimisation. During the last quarter, the airline doubled its capacity, with Available Seat Kilometres (ASKMs) increasing from around 55 crore to 105 crore. This growth reflects improving demand across both domestic and regional routes.

Building on this momentum, the airline plans to more than double its capacity during 2026. By the Winter 2026 schedule, SpiceJet is targeting 220–225 crore ASKMs while operating over 300 daily flights. The expanded capacity is expected to strengthen connectivity across key metro and tier-II markets, improve schedule reliability, and cater to sustained passenger demand.

Commenting on the development, Debojo Maharshi, Chief Business Officer, SpiceJet, said: “Doubling our capacity in the last quarter has been a significant milestone, and the plans we have in place to more than double it further this year reflect growing confidence in the business and strong demand across the network. The receipt of this MoU is an encouraging development as we continue to rebuild and expand our operations in a measured manner. Our focus remains on restoring capacity, strengthening connectivity and improving reliability for our passengers.”

As part of its long-term roadmap, SpiceJet will continue to follow a balanced fleet strategy. By combining the return of grounded aircraft with selective capacity additions, the airline aims to position itself for sustainable growth as the aviation market continues its recovery.

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of a Tree of Life resort in Nashik, Maharashtra, marking the brand’s entry into one of the state’s most popular leisure destinations.

Speaking on the announcement, Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “Nashik has emerged as a preferred short-haul getaway for travellers from Mumbai and Pune. Its blend of spirituality, nature and adventure appeals to guests seeking leisure time. The debut of Tree of Life in this established destination expands the brands presence in Maharashtra. We are delighted to partner with Onzal Farms LLP, represented by Dr Milind Pimprikar, Dr Vijaya Shelke, Dr Shubhangi Pimprikar, and Mrs Shreeys Shelke (Patel) for this project.”

Located in Trimbakeshwar, one of the region’s most important spiritual and cultural centres, Tree of Life Nashik will feature 49 rooms set amid calm and scenic surroundings. Spread across more than three acres, the resort will include an all-day dining restaurant and bar, a meeting room, a swimming pool, and a spa, offering guests a relaxed and restorative stay while exploring the region.

Dr. Milind Pimprikar said, “We are delighted to collaborate with IHCL and bring the experience of Tree of Life to Nashik. We look forward to creating a distinctive offering for guests visiting the region.”

Nashik is home to the revered Trimbakeshwar Temple and is framed by the Western Ghats, making it known for its scenic trails, waterfalls, and lush landscapes. The destination continues to attract travellers looking for a mix of spiritual depth and nature-led experiences.

With this signing, IHCL will have four hotels in Nashik, with two more in the pipeline, further strengthening its footprint in the city.

About the owning company:

Dr Milind Pimprikar, the main promoter of the LLP, is one of the leading orthopaedic doctors in the country. With over 30 years of experience, his skills and technical expertise have enabled him to perform thousands of successful orthopaedic surgeries. His mission is to build an institution that goes beyond treatment and contributes to the overall well-being of society. This marks his first venture into the hospitality sector.

Tata Sons has appointed former civil aviation secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola as an advisor for its aviation business, as the group sharpens its focus on reviving Air India amid increasing regulatory scrutiny and leadership changes.

Kharola, a 1985-batch Indian Administrative Service officer, is expected to steer the airline’s communication with the government at a time when the carrier is navigating safety reviews, compliance challenges and internal transition. He earlier served as civil aviation secretary from February 2019 to September 2021 and played a pivotal role in the privatisation process that led to the Tata Group’s takeover of Air India in January 2022. He also previously held the position of Air India chairman.

Sources familiar with the development said Kharola was handpicked by Tata Sons chairman N. Chandrasekaran and has already been closely involved in critical matters, including sensitive government interactions and safety assessments.

The appointment comes at a challenging time for the airline. Following last year’s crash of a Boeing 787 aircraft that resulted in 260 fatalities, Air India’s operations have remained under heightened regulatory watch. A preliminary investigation did not indicate any fault with the aircraft or the airline’s engineering practices as the cause of the crash.

According to data presented in Parliament, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued 84 show cause notices to Air India in the past two years, while its low-cost arm Air India Express received 65 notices. In comparison, rival IndiGo, with nearly double the fleet size received 98 notices during the same period.

Last week, the DGCA penalised Air India for operating an aircraft eight times without a valid airworthiness permit, stating that the lapse had eroded public trust in aviation safety.

Meanwhile, Tata Group has reportedly initiated the search for a successor to CEO Campbell Wilson as part of broader leadership restructuring efforts.

Aviation remains a highly regulated sector, where airlines depend heavily on government clearances. Air India is currently lobbying for permission to use Chinese airspace to mitigate financial pressures arising from restrictions on Indian carriers using Pakistani airspace.

Industry observers note that strengthening government relations is critical for airlines in India. IndiGo too has brought experienced bureaucrats into key corporate roles to manage regulatory and policy engagement.

With Kharola’s administrative experience and familiarity with the aviation ministry’s functioning, Tata Sons appears to be reinforcing its strategy to stabilise operations, rebuild trust and navigate complex regulatory terrain as Air India charts its next growth phase.