Bangladesh Bars SpiceJet from Using Its Airspace Over Unpaid Dues

SpiceJet has been barred from using Bangladesh’s airspace due to unpaid overflight charges, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB).

Officials said the airline last operated overflights under a payment arrangement in March 2025. Since then, the monthly fee was not renewed, leaving an estimated outstanding amount of around $3 million.

Under international aviation regulations, airlines must pay overflight and navigation charges to use another country’s airspace. Data from Flightradar24 shows that SpiceJet flights have recently been avoiding Bangladeshi airspace and taking longer alternative routes.

A spokesperson for the airline described the matter as part of a routine commercial process and said discussions are underway to resolve the dues. Aviation experts warn that prolonged restrictions could increase fuel consumption and operational costs for the airline, particularly on routes connecting eastern India and the northeastern states.