Delhi HC Orders SpiceJet to Ground and Return Aircraft Engines Amid Leasing Dispute

The Delhi High Court has directed SpiceJet to ground and return three aircraft engines to their lessors while mandating the airline to file an affidavit listing its assets. The court has also issued a notice to the DGCA and scheduled the matter for further hearing on November 13, 2023.

The Delhi High Court on Monday ordered budget carrier SpiceJet to ground three aircraft engines and return them to their lessors. The court instructed SpiceJet to submit an affidavit detailing its assets, scheduling further proceedings for November 13.

In compliance with its August 14 order, the single-judge bench instructed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to submit a status report by the next hearing. The court emphasized that SpiceJet must ensure the engines' inspection by the lessors before the final handover.

SpiceJet's counsel asserted readiness to return the engines but noted the need for engine stands. The court granted the lessors the ability to procure the stands at the airline's cost if expedited. The lessors' frustration over delayed compliance was acknowledged by the bench, stressing that financial liabilities remain.

(With inputs from agencies.)