SpiceJet is one of India’s most recognized low-cost carriers, serving millions of passengers on domestic and international routes. As with any airline, experiences can vary widely, and real customer feedback paints a nuanced picture. This review draws on hundreds of genuine user experiences shared across forums, social media, and review sites, providing a comprehensive, balanced evaluation of SpiceJet’s performance across all key areas.
Booking & Website/App Experience with SpiceJet
Rating: 3/5
Booking Process
SpiceJet’s booking platform—available via both website and mobile app—receives generally positive feedback for its clean, intuitive interface. Users report that searching for flights, comparing fares, and finalizing bookings is straightforward. The fare calendar is helpful for finding the lowest prices, and the app’s integration with payment wallets and UPI is a plus for Indian travelers.
Positive Experiences:
- Ease of Use: Most passengers find the booking process quick and hassle-free, with clear fare breakdowns and minimal hidden charges.
- Web Check-in: The ability to check in online up to 48 hours before departure is appreciated, reducing airport wait times.
Negative Experiences:
- Limited Flexibility: Several users complain that changing or canceling bookings is cumbersome, with high change fees and limited refund options.
- Communication Gaps: When flights are rescheduled or canceled, notifications are sometimes delayed or unclear, leaving travelers scrambling to rearrange plans.
- App Bugs: Some passengers have faced glitches during payment or while retrieving boarding passes, especially during peak periods.
Summary:
SpiceJet’s booking experience is on par with other budget airlines, but those who value flexibility or anticipate travel changes may find the process frustrating.
Check-in Process with SpiceJet
Rating: 3/5
Web & Mobile Check-in
Online check-in is efficient and user-friendly. Most travelers are able to select seats and obtain boarding passes with minimal fuss. The process is especially smooth for those traveling with only hand luggage.
Airport Check-in
At the airport, SpiceJet’s check-in counters are generally well-staffed at smaller airports, and queues move quickly. Ground staff at locations like Kochi and Goa are often described as polite and helpful.
Challenges:
- Inconsistent Staff Attitude: At major airports such as Delhi and Mumbai, some travelers report encountering indifferent or even rude staff, with little willingness to assist with issues.
- Strict Baggage Rules: SpiceJet is known for strictly enforcing baggage weight limits, including hand luggage. Several passengers have been caught off-guard by the inclusion of laptops in the carry-on allowance, leading to last-minute repacking or extra charges.
- Early Gate Closures: The airline is strict about closing gates well before departure, which has led to missed flights for some late-arriving passengers.
Summary:
While the check-in process is generally efficient, staff attitude and strict baggage enforcement can detract from the experience, especially at busier airports.
Airport Experience for SpiceJet
Rating: 3/5
At Smaller Airports
Passengers flying from smaller airports like Dharamshala, Jaipur, or Kochi typically report a smooth, pleasant experience. Security and boarding are organized, and SpiceJet staff are more likely to go the extra mile.
At Major Hubs
At larger airports, the experience can be more stressful.
- Long Queues: Check-in and baggage drop can involve long waits, particularly during peak travel times.
- Disorganized Boarding: Some users complain about chaotic boarding processes, unclear announcements, and a lack of priority for families or elderly passengers.
- Facilities: As a low-cost carrier, SpiceJet does not operate dedicated lounges or premium check-in counters, so the airport experience is basic.
Positive Notes:
- Efficient Security: Security and immigration procedures are generally smooth, with minimal delays attributed to the airline itself.
Summary:
The airport experience with SpiceJet is highly dependent on the departure point, with smaller airports offering a more relaxed and pleasant journey.
Punctuality of SpiceJet
Rating: 2/5
On-Time Performance
Punctuality is consistently cited as one of SpiceJet’s weakest areas. While some flights, particularly early morning or late-night departures, are on time, delays are common.
User Feedback:
- Frequent Delays: Many passengers report delays ranging from 30 minutes to several hours. Some have experienced multiple delays on the same day, with little explanation or apology.
- Last-Minute Cancellations: There are numerous accounts of flights being canceled at short notice, often with inadequate alternatives or compensation.
- Poor Communication: Passengers often complain about a lack of timely updates regarding delays or gate changes, both via SMS and at the airport.
Positive Experiences:
- International Routes: Some international flights, especially to the Middle East and Southeast Asia, are praised for their punctuality and efficient turnaround.
Summary:
Travelers with tight schedules should be cautious, as delays and cancellations are not uncommon and communication about disruptions is often lacking.
In-flight Comfort & Cleanliness of SpiceJet
Rating: 3/5
Seating Comfort
SpiceJet’s fleet includes both newer Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and older Boeing 737-800s.
- Newer Aircraft: On newer planes, passengers note comfortable seats with decent legroom (especially in exit rows), adjustable headrests, and clean interiors.
- Older Aircraft: On older planes, some seats are worn, with limited recline and less cushioning. Seat pockets may be torn, and tray tables can be wobbly.
Cabin Cleanliness
- Positive: Most passengers find the cabins clean at boarding, with well-maintained toilets and fresh-smelling interiors.
- Negative: On longer flights or after multiple short sectors, cleanliness can deteriorate, with overflowing trash in seat pockets and dirty windows.
Temperature & Lighting
Cabins are generally well-ventilated and temperature-controlled, though a few users have reported overly cold or hot cabins.
Summary:
Comfort and cleanliness are adequate for a low-cost carrier but can vary significantly depending on the aircraft and route.
In-flight Services of SpiceJet
Rating: 3/5
Cabin Crew
SpiceJet’s flight attendants are frequently described as polite, efficient, and professional. On international and premium routes, service is more attentive, with crew members going out of their way to assist families and elderly passengers.
Mixed Feedback:
- Rushed Service: On busy domestic flights, service can feel hurried, with little time for personalized attention.
- Variable Friendliness: Some passengers have encountered indifferent or disengaged crew, particularly on delayed or late-night flights.
In-flight Entertainment
SpiceJet offers the SpiceScreen Wi-Fi portal, which allows passengers to stream movies, TV shows, and magazines on their own devices. While the selection is not as extensive as full-service airlines, it is a welcome feature for a budget carrier.
Food & Beverages
- Buy-on-Board: SpiceJet operates a buy-on-board model. The menu includes snacks, sandwiches, and hot meals, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
- Quality: Food quality is generally rated as average—edible but not memorable. Prices are reasonable for an airline, but some passengers feel the portions are small.
- Pre-Order: Pre-ordering meals during booking ensures availability, but some users have reported mix-ups or missing items.
Summary:
In-flight service is functional and friendly, with basic amenities and a modest buy-on-board menu. Entertainment options are a plus for tech-savvy travelers.
Baggage Handling of SpiceJet
Rating: 2/5
Checked Baggage
SpiceJet’s baggage policy is strictly enforced, with a standard allowance of 15 kg for checked bags on most domestic routes. Excess baggage fees are high, and several passengers have been charged for minor weight overages.
Carry-On Baggage
The 7 kg carry-on limit includes laptops and handbags, which has surprised many travelers. Staff are diligent about weighing hand luggage at check-in and boarding gates.
Baggage Delivery:
- Positive: At smaller airports, baggage is often delivered quickly and without incident.
- Negative: At larger airports, there are frequent complaints of delayed baggage delivery, mishandled or damaged luggage, and, in rare cases, lost bags.
Resolution:
Customer support for baggage issues is often slow and unsatisfactory, with compensation rarely provided unless travelers persistently follow up.
Summary:
Baggage handling is a weak point for SpiceJet, with strict policies, frequent delays, and inconsistent customer service.
Value for Money of SpiceJet
Rating: 4/5
Affordability
SpiceJet’s biggest strength is its competitive pricing. For budget-conscious travelers, the airline offers fares significantly lower than full-service competitors, especially when booked in advance or during sales.
What You Get
- Basic Service: The airline delivers what it promises: a no-frills, point-to-point service that gets you from A to B at a low cost.
- Good for Short-Haul: For short domestic flights or international hops to the Middle East or Southeast Asia, the value proposition is strong.
Trade-offs
- Inconsistent Experience: Travelers trade reliability and comfort for price. Delays, strict baggage rules, and variable service are the price of savings.
- Extra Charges: Optional extras (seat selection, meals, extra baggage) can add up, so budget accordingly.
Summary:
If you prioritize low fares and can tolerate occasional inconveniences, SpiceJet offers excellent value for money.
Customer Support
Rating: 2/5
Accessibility
Reaching SpiceJet’s customer support can be challenging, especially during disruptions or peak periods. The call center is often busy, and email responses can take days.
Issue Resolution
- Positive: Some travelers have praised individual staff members for going above and beyond to resolve issues at the airport.
- Negative: The majority of feedback is negative, with complaints about unhelpful responses, lack of follow-up, and a general reluctance to offer compensation or alternative solutions.
Social Media
Some passengers have found quicker responses via SpiceJet’s Twitter or Facebook pages, but resolution still depends on the nature of the issue.
Summary:
Customer support is a major area for improvement. Persistent follow-up is often required to resolve even simple issues.
Overall Experience of SpiceJet
Rating: 3/5
SpiceJet is a classic low-cost carrier: it delivers affordable fares, basic comfort, and a no-frills experience. For travelers who set realistic expectations and are prepared for occasional hiccups—especially with punctuality and baggage—the airline is a practical choice for short or budget-conscious trips.
Who Should Fly SpiceJet?
- Budget Travelers: Those who want the lowest fares and are willing to accept trade-offs in comfort and reliability.
- Short-Haul Flyers: Passengers on short domestic or regional international routes.
- Flexible Schedules: Travelers who can accommodate potential delays or cancellations.
Who Should Avoid?
- Business Travelers: Those with tight schedules or connecting flights.
- Premium Seekers: Passengers expecting luxury, lounge access, or gourmet meals.
- Families with Special Needs: Those requiring extra assistance or flexibility.
Final Verdict of SpiceJet
SpiceJet is a practical, budget-friendly airline that serves its purpose for cost-conscious travelers. While it excels in affordability and basic service, it falls short in punctuality, baggage handling, and customer support. The experience can vary widely depending on the route, airport, and aircraft. For short-haul or budget international flights, SpiceJet is a reasonable option—just be prepared for occasional inconveniences and keep expectations aligned with the price paid. If reliability and service are your top priorities, you may want to consider other carriers.
Tips for a Better SpiceJet Experience
- Arrive Early: Allow extra time for check-in and security, especially at major airports.
- Weigh Your Bags: Strict baggage policies mean even small overages can result in fees.
- Use Web Check-in: Save time and choose your seat in advance.
- Pre-Order Meals: If you want a specific meal, order during booking to avoid disappointment.
- Monitor Flight Status: Check for updates via the app or website, as communication about delays can be inconsistent.
- Be Flexible: Have backup plans in case of delays or cancellations.
- Persist with Customer Support: If you face issues, follow up via multiple channels for faster resolution.