SpiceJet has acquired its first Boeing 737-900ER (Extended Range) aircraft, making it the operator of the largest aircraft in the domestic skies.
Belonging to the next generation of Boeing 737 family, the new aircraft has an enhanced seating capacity of 212 though all its operations are similar to that of Boeing 737-800 which is currently being operated by SpiceJet.
Addressing the media on board during the second flight of the new aircraft at Indira Gandhi International Airport here earlier this week, SpiceJet Ltd Executive Chairman Siddhanta Sharma said the Boeing 737-900ER had been acquired as part of the airline’s aggressive growth strategy.
“The new aircraft will fly on high-density long-distance routes on the SpiceJet network. It will initially be deployed on the carrier’s existing Delhi-Goa-Mumbai route. The new Boeing will help us deploy greater seat capacity in popular sectors helping resolve slot constraints by accommodating higher loads. Its low operation cost will also help us become more profitable,” he said.
17/11/07 The Hindu
Monday, November 19, 2007