Bangladesh skies closed for SpiceJet: Here's why airline is barred by Dhaka
Times of India
by TOI BUSINESS DESKFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Bangladesh has banned SpiceJet from operating in its airspace due to unpaid dues, impacting flights originating from Kolkata and forcing them to take longer routes. This move by Dhaka highlights tensions over financial obligations within the aviation industry, as SpiceJet continues to engage with authorities regarding operational matters. The airline maintains that its flight operations remain unaffected, emphasizing compliance with regulatory requirements despite the challenges.
The restriction comes amid ongoing issues between SpiceJet and Bangladeshi officials, particularly related to navigation charges. While SpiceJet has not confirmed the exact nature of the outstanding amount, industry sources suggest it is linked to non-payment of dues. Flight tracking data shows that flights between Kolkata and northeastern cities like Guwahati and Imphal are now avoiding Bangladesh airspace, opting for alternative routes as a result.
This development raises concerns about the financial health of SpiceJet, which recently reported a loss of Rs 269.27 crore for the quarter ending December 2025. Higher operational costs and one-time expenses have strained the airline's finances, casting doubt on its ability to meet obligations in the near term. Meanwhile, shares of SpiceJet dropped nearly 1% in stock market trading, reflecting investor nervousness over the company’s financial stability.
The ban underscores broader challenges faced by low-cost carriers like SpiceJet, which often grapple with high operational expenses and regulatory hurdles. This incident may serve as a cautionary tale for other airlines navigating similar financial pressures. Additionally, it highlights the importance of maintaining good relations with international aviation authorities to ensure uninterrupted flight operations across borders.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/19/2026