IndiGo Faces Major Operational Disruptions Affecting Thousands of Passengers

Today, passengers experienced significant distress due to severe operational disruptions at IndiGo, the country's largest airline network. The airline announced the cancellation of all domestic flights departing from Delhi Airport until midnight, impacting the travel plans of thousands. Over 220 flights, including arrivals and departures, were canceled in Delhi, while more than 100 flights were scrapped in Bengaluru and over 90 in Hyderabad. Long queues at airports, passenger frustration, and constantly changing flight statuses have exacerbated the situation. At Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, hundreds of travelers were seen searching for their lost luggage.

Amid this chaos, Singapore's High Commissioner Simon Wong found himself stranded after his flight to Deoghar was unexpectedly canceled. He took to social media to express that he was among the tens of thousands of passengers affected by IndiGo's issues, lamenting his inability to attend a staff member's wedding. Meanwhile, passenger dissatisfaction continues to escalate.

In a statement, the airline acknowledged that its network has faced significant disruptions over the past two days and expressed regret for the difficulties faced by travelers. IndiGo has informed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) that it will reduce flights starting December 8, with full operational stability expected to be restored by February 10, 2026. The airline admitted that the crisis stemmed from miscalculations and planning deficiencies in implementing the second phase of the Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL).

Meanwhile, Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu expressed strong discontent regarding the situation, reprimanding IndiGo and instructing the airline to stabilize operations and keep fares in check. The minister noted that the airline had ample time to prepare for the new FDTL regulations but failed to ensure a smooth transition.

Political reactions have also emerged, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi labeling the crisis as the 'cost of the government's monopoly model.' He emphasized the need for transparent competition across all sectors, rather than monopolistic tendencies that always burden ordinary travelers. Other opposition leaders have also criticized the government, prompting responses from ruling party MPs.

Regardless of political commentary, traffic at several major airports across the country remains severely disrupted, with no clear timeline for normalization in sight. The sudden collapse of a major airline like IndiGo highlights not just operational errors but also reflects a broader regulatory and corporate culture that prioritizes expansion over planning. The new FDTL regulations aim to reduce pilot fatigue and ensure aviation safety, leaving no room for negligence. Additionally, passenger rights concerning meals, hotel arrangements, and accurate information are legal and ethical responsibilities that must be upheld.