As per news report, Sunbird France has approached the Delhi High Court (HC) to enforce a ruling from the UK Commercial Court, seeking to recover ₹70 crore from SpiceJet over unpaid engine lease and maintenance dues.
Sunbird France, an engine lessor, secured a judgment from the UK Commercial Court in April 2026, directing SpiceJet to pay approximately $8 million, equalling ₹70 crore.
These dues involve unpaid lease rentals and maintenance charges over 3 aircraft engines leased to the airline, pending since January 2022 and November 2020, respectively.
The lessor's claim cites SpiceJet’s absence of a defensive response in the proceedings.
Through its submission to the Delhi High Court, Sunbird France seeks recognition and enforcement of the UK Court decree in India.
The lessor has requested orders to prevent SpiceJet from alienating, or creating third-party rights over its assets outside typical business activities, until the dues are settled.
This action highlights Sunbird’s strategy to collect outstanding payments using international legal frameworks.
Sunbird France also pointed out contradictions between SpiceJet’s claimed financial stress and its actions, noting that despite its monetary challenges, the airline extended an interest-free advance of $3.4 million to its CEO, equating to 5 years’ salary.
This contradiction is brought forth to counter any defensive financial hardship claims by the airline in court.
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This case serves as a significant example of international legal proceedings involving Indian companies, emphasising contractual obligations and dispute resolution in cross-border lease agreements.
The outcome could influence strategies for similar cases involving foreign lessors and Indian airlines.
As of May 21, 2026, at 1:49 PM, SpiceJet share price on BSE was trading at ₹12.94 up by 0.15% from the previous closing price.
Sunbird France’s legal move to the Delhi High Court for enforcing a UK ruling demonstrates the complexities of recovering dues across borders. It sheds light on the enforcement strategies lessors might deploy to reclaim outstanding amounts from airlines, showcasing the intricacies in cross-border aviation industry transactions.
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Published on: May 21, 2026, 3:10 PM IST
Team Angel One
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