SpiceJet Soars to Profit: Q4 Surge Delivers First Annual Gain in Seven Years
Low-cost carrier posts record quarterly profit and reverses years of losses, signaling a new era of financial stability and growth
A Remarkable Financial Turnaround
After years of turbulence, SpiceJet has achieved what many in the industry doubted was possible: a return to profitability. The airline’s Q4 FY25 results show a PAT of ₹324.87 crore, up 173% from the same period last year, and a twelvefold increase from the previous quarter. This performance marks the second consecutive profitable quarter for the Gurugram-based airline, signaling that its turnaround strategy is bearing fruit.
SpiceJet recorded a PAT of ₹48 cr for the full year, representing a notable recovery from the ₹404 cr loss which was reported in FY 2024.
This is the airline’s first annual profit since FY18, breaking a cycle of losses that had cast doubt on its long-term viability.
Key Drivers of the Comeback
1. Strong Passenger Demand and Load Factors
SpiceJet’s recovery has been underpinned by robust passenger demand. The airline reported a passenger load factor of 88.1% for Q4, reflecting high seat occupancy and effective capacity utilization. Special events, such as the 45-day Maha Kumbh festival, and a focus on non-metro destinations contributed to this strong performance.
2. Improved Yield and Cost Control
Revenue per available seat kilometer (RASK) rose by 3.4% y-o-y, while the airline’s EBITDA surged to ₹527 cr in Q4—more than twice the previous year’s figure.
Aggressive cost optimization measures and better yield management played crucial roles in boosting profitability, even as operating revenue for the quarter declined 16% year-on-year to ₹1,446 crore.
3. Capital Infusion and Positive Net Worth
The promoter group’s equity infusion of ₹500 crore—including ₹294 crore infused in Q4—has bolstered SpiceJet’s financial foundation. By the end of the year, the airline’s net worth had turned positive at ₹683 crore, marking a crucial step toward financial stability and long-term growth.
Expansion and Operational Highlights
Despite ongoing challenges in reviving its grounded fleet due to global supply chain and engine overhaul issues, SpiceJet has expanded its domestic network with 24 new flights and added destinations such as Tuticorin, Porbandar, and Dehradun. The airline also commenced dedicated Haj services and added Kathmandu as its inaugural international destination for FY2026.
Market Reaction and Investor Sentiment
Following the announcement of the Q4 results, SpiceJet’s shares initially rose by over 2% on the BSE, reflecting renewed market optimism. Analysts noted that the airline’s strong results, improved financials, and ongoing network expansion have restored investor confidence, although the stock later saw some profit-taking.
Challenges Ahead
While the Q4 and annual results are encouraging, SpiceJet still faces industry-wide challenges. The revival of its grounded fleet has taken longer than expected, mainly due to complex supply chain and engine overhaul issues. However, partnerships with leading OEMs and MROs are beginning to yield results, with overhauled engines returning and operational capacity expected to ramp up in the coming months.
Additionally, the airline must continue to navigate a competitive market, fluctuating fuel prices, and evolving regulatory requirements to sustain its profitability.
Conclusion
SpiceJet’s record Q4 profit and return to annual profitability mark a significant milestone in the airline’s history. Driven by strong demand, cost discipline, and strategic capital infusion, the carrier has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in a challenging market. Armed with a healthier balance sheet, regained investor trust, and an expanding route network, SpiceJet is poised to begin a fresh phase of stable and sustained growth.
The coming quarters will test the airline’s ability to maintain this momentum, but for now, the turnaround story stands as a testament to effective leadership and operational focus.
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The image added is for representation purposes only
