NEW DELHI: Passengers are starting to avoid SpiceJet Ltd. after a series of mid-air safety failures, according to a survey, dealing a blow to the cash-strapped airline that’s been summoned by authorities to explain the lapses.
A survey of more than 21,000 fliers conducted by LocalCircles showed 44% are currently steering clear of India’s third-biggest airline due to safety concerns versus 21% who are avoiding Air India Ltd. and IndiGo and 18% for Go First. Some 37% of respondents said they don’t avoid any particular airline.
Losing passengers over incidents involving technical glitches would be a major setback for SpiceJet, which has relinquished its second-highest market share to Go First. Any fallout could further upset SpiceJet’s deteriorating financial health. The airline has suffered losses for the last three fiscal years and its shares have plunged 43% this year, making it the worst airline stock in Asia.
