India allows Boeing 737 MAX planes to fly with immediate effect

INTERNATIONAL DESK: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which had banned operations by Boeing MAX aircraft in March 2019 after two fatal crashes, on Thursday, allowed operations of these airplanes in India.

This order will not just allow SpiceJet to restart operating its Boeing 737MAX aircraft but would also allow foreign airlines like Flydubai to fly in their aircraft into the country.

“… enables operation of Boeing Company Model 737-9 airplanes, is rescinded with immediate effect as described below. This rescission enables operation of Boeing company applicable requirements for return to service,” read an order signed by DGCA DG Arun Kumar. India’s permission to MAX aircraft comes after the US and European regulators allowed the aircraft to operate. The only big aviation market that has not allowed the aircraft is China.

Earlier during the day, SpiceJet had said that the airline will soon bring back Boeing 737 MAX aircraft back into service starting next month.

“Spicejet has entered into a settlement with Avolon, a major lessor of MAX aircraft, paving the way for the airline’s 737 MAX aircraft to start to return to service,” the airline said.

The airline said it ‘expects to start operations of MAX aircraft by the end of September 2021, subject to regulatory approvals.

“With a better and a more efficient fleet back in operation, we expect a significant reduction in our operating costs, improving our bottom line,” Ajay Singh, chairman and MD, SpiceJet, was quoted in a press statement. (The Economic Times)