India allows Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to fly 30 months after global ban

SpiceJet plans to bring the aircraft back in service by Sep-end

Aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Thursday lifted a ban on Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, two and a half years after it was grounded globally. The ban had followed two crashes killing 346 on-board.

India, besides China, was the only major aviation market for the Chicago-headquartered Boeing not to allow the aircraft to resume service so far. While the Federal Aviation Administration in the US allowed 737 MAX to fly again last November, China has conducted test flights and is likely to approve soon.

“Worldwide 17 operators have permitted operation of 737 MAX aircraft. 34 airlines have been operating