SpiceJet To Layoff 1,400 Workers As Cost- Cutting Measure
SpiceJet Airlines plans to reduce its workforce by 1,400 personnel, or approximately 15 per cent of its overall workforce, as part of cost-cutting efforts aimed at maintaining investor interest amidst persistent financial troubles. The cash-strapped budget airlines confirmed the news to The Economic Times (ET), citing the need to match companywide costs with operational requirements as the reason for the staff reductions.
The airline currently employs 9,000 people and operates about 30 aircraft, including eight that are wet-leased from international carriers. The carrier's salary bill reportedly totals Rs 60 crore, necessitating worker reductions. According to reports, salary payments have been late for several months, leaving many employees waiting for their January paycheck.
Earlier this month, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) penalised the airline Rs 30 lakh, along with Air India, for failing to roster enough pilots trained to land in low visibility conditions (CAT-III landings) during the fog season.
