SpiceJet has appointed aviation industry veteran Sanjay Kumar as its Executive Director, a move aimed at strengthening the airline’s leadership as it works to overcome operational challenges and focus on future growth.

Kumar officially took charge on November 3, and will report directly to Ajay Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of SpiceJet. His new role will focus on driving the airline’s expansion plans, operational excellence, and overall business transformation.

With more than 30 years of experience in the aviation industry, Sanjay Kumar brings a deep understanding of the low-cost airline model, network planning, marketing, revenue management, and commercial strategy.

He is best known for his long and successful tenure at IndiGo, where he played a crucial role in shaping the airline’s rise as India’s largest carrier. Kumar served IndiGo for almost 12 years as Chief Commercial Officer and later as Chief Strategy and Revenue Officer.

In these roles, he was instrumental in expanding IndiGo’s domestic and international routes, improving revenue systems, and strengthening its position in India’s competitive low-cost aviation market.

Before returning to SpiceJet, Kumar held several senior leadership positions across prominent aviation companies. He served as President and CEO at InterGlobe Technology Quotient, a technology and distribution company under the InterGlobe Group, and also as Chief Operating Officer at AirAsia India.

Earlier in his career, Kumar also contributed significantly to the development of new air routes and is credited with putting several new cities, including Bhubaneshwar, on India’s aviation map.

Expressing enthusiasm about his return, Kumar said: “I am excited to re-join SpiceJet at a pivotal time in its journey. The Indian aviation market offers tremendous opportunities, and I look forward to working with the team to drive SpiceJet’s expansion, enhance operational efficiencies, and deliver even greater value to our customers and stakeholders.”

Kumar’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for SpiceJet, which has been facing financial and operational headwinds over the past few years. His extensive experience in commercial strategy and airline transformation is expected to play a key role as the airline aims to stabilise operations, strengthen profitability, and capture new market opportunities.

With Kumar’s leadership, SpiceJet is expected to focus on network growth, better cost management, and customer-centric improvements, as it positions itself for the next phase of growth in India’s highly competitive aviation sector.