SpiceJet today said it will operate special flights for the Hajj pilgrimage from Indore and Gaya.
Two Airbus 320 planes would be deployed from the two cities to Jeddah and Madina in Saudi Arabia between August 4 and September 3.
"The return journey for the pilgrims back to Gaya is scheduled from September 17 and to Indore from September 30. The whole activity is expected to be executed by October 16, 2016," the airline said in a release.
SpiceJet expects to ferry around 8,000 pilgrims.
"Hajj is a lifetime experience and SpiceJet will make every effort to ensure a hassle-free and delightful travel experience to all its customers. We extend our appreciation to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Hajj committee for choosing us," SpiceJet's Chief Administrative Officer and Accountable Manager G P Gupta said.
Singh said the induction of the new aircraft, which burn
20 per cent less fuel, would help SpiceJet reduce costs and enhance its ability to compete.
"This is a composite transaction for purchase of up to 205 aircraft valued at USD 22 billion," Singh said, adding that the focus is on growing the airline in a responsible and profitable manner.
After being on the verge of going belly up two years ago, the airline has been in the black for the past seven straight quarters.
When asked about financing of the deal and its impact on debt to equity ratio, Singh said there would be no "equity dilution" and the balance sheet would be healthy.
In the 2016 July-September quarter, the airline had posted its highest-ever quarterly profit of Rs 59 crore. In the year-ago period, the same stood at Rs 29 crore.
