SpiceJet operates first repatriation flight from the Philippines

SpiceJet operated its maiden repatriation flight from the Philippines under the Vande Bharat Mission (VBM). The airline repatriated 160 stranded Indian nationals from Cebu to Chennai.

In addition to repatriating Indian nationals the airline will also arrange complimentary air travel for three Philippines nationals requiring liver treatment in Hyderabad on 12 September. The airline deployed its Boeing 737 aircraft for this flight.

Shambhu S. Kumaran, ambassador of India to the Philippines said: “SpiceJet is operating a flight from Cebu to Chennai followed by a flight from Cebu to Hyderabad and Ahmedabad on 12 September. These VBM flights reflect the partnership between Embassy of India in Manila and our carrier to provide maximum possible opportunities for stranded Indians, especially students, in the Philippines to return home. We look forward to working together with SpiceJet on this shared objective in future as well.”

Debashis Saha, vice president of regulatory and government affairs in SpiceJet said: “SpiceJet is extremely proud to operate its maiden repatriation flight from Philippines to India under the VBM and bring back home our fellow Indian nationals. Reuniting our fellow Indians with their families in these very difficult times is a great motivation for us at SpiceJet and another example of our commitment to helping as many people as we can to get back home.”

SpiceJet had earlier operated four charter flights between Manila and Delhi thereby repatriating around 700 Indians and 170 passengers holding permanent residency of Philippines on one flight from Delhi to Manila. The airline also facilitated travel of 12 Filipino children to Delhi who required an urgent liver transplant.