DUBAI — SpiceJet operations at Dubai International Airport faced disruption on Thursday after check-in services were suspended over unpaid dues of more than 14 million UAE dirhams, equivalent to approximately Rs 35.8 crore.
The suspension was imposed by dnata, the ground-handling company, after the airline failed to clear its outstanding payments within the deadline. Dubai Airports had reportedly warned SpiceJet on November 9 that its unpaid dues had reached 14 million dirhams. The airline was told that check-in services could be suspended if the full amount was not paid. The restriction came into effect on November 12.
Two SpiceJet flights were allowed to depart before the suspension took effect. Four other planned flights were cancelled. Reports indicate that these four flights were scheduled as ferry services without passengers on board. Therefore, the cancellations should not be interpreted as confirmation that passengers on all four flights were stranded at the airport.
The disruption also attracted the attention of Dubai's aviation authorities. The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority summoned SpiceJet's station manager and questioned the airline's handling of passenger communication.
The authorities reportedly directed the airline to formally inform affected travellers, arrange alternative flights where required, and provide hotel accommodation and transport to passengers affected by the cancellations.
The disruption comes amid wider operational difficulties faced by SpiceJet, including flight delays and cancellations. Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport also issued a passenger advisory on Friday, warning that some SpiceJet services could be affected by the airline's operational challenges. Travellers were advised to contact the airline directly for updated flight information before leaving for the airport.
SpiceJet had not issued an official response to the latest Dubai disruption in the reports available at the time of publication. Passengers travelling between the UAE and India have been advised to verify their flight status and booking details directly with the airline before starting their journey.
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