SpiceJet stops inflight meal service

Cites technical reasons; crew told to apologies to passengers and provide feedback forms for those seeking a refund for pre-booked meals

SpiceJet has stopped serving meals and beverages on board its flights in a sign of deepening financial crisis.

The airline wrote to its cabin crew on Sunday it will not uplift perishable and non-perishable items on all its flights till further notice due to "technical reasons." Cabin crew have also been instructed to apologise to passengers for inconvenience and provide feedback forms in case a passenger seeks a refund for pre-booked meals.

TajSATS and Cafe Coffee Day provide inflight food and beverage for SpiceJet across its network.

SpiceJet declined to comment.

The development comes on a day when SpiceJet management is meeting civil aviation minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju seeking removal of curbs on booking and government support to the airline.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) withdrew 186 flight slots after airline reduced its fleet and undertook a mass cancellation of flights. The regulator also imposed restriction on bookings beyond 30 days hitting the airline's revenue further. It has also been instructed to clear salary dues.

Airport Authority of India too has stepped pressure asking the airline to clear Rs 200 crore dues.