India's SpiceJet Examines Support for Wide-Jet Jets Previously Exploited by Jet

SEOUL (Reuters) – Indian low-cost airline SpiceJet Ltd is investigating the possibility of taking over large aircraft previously operated by Jet Airways Ltd., but early studies show that they require major maintenance, announced Saturday its president.

SpiceJet, which operates large aircraft and turboprop aircraft, does not intend to become a jumbo jet with more distant flights in the aftermath of Jet's fall in April, said SpiceJet President Ajay Singh .

"Of course, a gap has been created and there seems to be an opportunity, but it's also a business we do not know much about. A venture at higher risk, "he told Reuters on the sidelines of a conference of the airline industry in Seoul.

"We explore it. We will see. If it seems to be very profitable, we can do it. "

Leasing or buying large jets not yet operated by Jet is another possibility, he said.

SpiceJet has taken over leases of 25 Boeing Co 737s previously operated by Jet in April and May.

The carrier plans to add an additional 35 aircraft during the fiscal year ending March 31, 2020, including leased aircraft, Q400 jets and 737 MAX "hopefully" aircraft after regulators approved the return to service of the ground model, Singh said.

According to government statistics, SpiceJet held 13.1% of the Indian domestic market in April, behind the 49.9% of IndiGo and the 13.9% of Air India.

Singh said IndiGo's growing dominance of the domestic market was becoming a topic of concern for the sector as a whole.

"I think the government will have to explore the possibilities," he said. "We have not thought about it yet. The government has just been elected and we are expanding ourselves. "