Bangladesh Bars SpiceJet Flights Over Unpaid Dues

Bangladesh has suspended Indian budget airline SpiceJet from using its airspace due to unpaid navigation charges, forcing several flights to take longer alternative routes.

Services departing from Kolkata to northeastern Indian cities such as Guwahati and Imphal have been particularly affected, as aircraft must now bypass Bangladeshi territory.

An airline spokesperson said the company is in regular contact with relevant authorities regarding operational and procedural issues, including payment of navigation fees. The spokesperson described the situation as part of routine industry processes and expressed confidence that it would be resolved soon. The airline added that its overall flight schedule remains largely intact and compliant with regulations.

Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the restriction stems from outstanding dues, although the exact amount has not been disclosed.

Flight-tracking data showed affected routes being diverted around Bangladeshi airspace, resulting in longer travel times and increased fuel consumption.

The development comes amid financial pressure on the carrier. Shares of SpiceJet fell about 1 percent during afternoon trading on the Bombay Stock Exchange. The airline recently reported a loss of Rs 269.27 crore for the quarter ending December 2025, citing higher operating costs and one-time expenses.