Sequentially though, the bottomline was far lower than the Rs 3,091-crore profit posted in the June quarter, while revenue declined by more than 10% since the second quarter is typically a seasonally weak one for the sector. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and restructuring or rent costs (EBITDAR), surged to Rs 2,446 crore for the quarter, from Rs 229 crore a year ago. The operating margin subsequently expanded to 16.4% from 1.8% a year ago.
While IndiGo did not quantify how many aircraft it expects to be grounded after January 2024, CEO Pieter Elbers added that IndiGo is confident of meeting its guidance of 15-19% fleet expansion in 2023-24 compared to a year ago
Despite a lower passenger load factor, IndiGo managed to maintain its market share in the quarter. PLF for IndiGo remained muted for the second consecutive month at 83.6%. But IndiGo being able to maintain domestic market share despite lower PLFs indicates better aircraft/pilot availability with it versus other airlines, brokerage ICICI Securities said.