IndiGo Faces Major Operational Crisis Leading to 600 Flight Cancellations Nationwide
Chaos at Airports Due to IndiGo's Operational Issues
On Friday, numerous airports experienced significant disruptions as IndiGo faced ongoing operational challenges, resulting in widespread flight cancellations, extensive delays, and heated exchanges between passengers and airline staff.
Massive Flight Cancellations Across the Country
The operational crisis at IndiGo escalated on December 5, leading to a staggering number of flight cancellations nationwide and causing considerable inconvenience for travelers. The airline encountered its worst breakdown in a single day, with 600 flights canceled due to staff shortages, technical issues, and network disruptions.
IndiGo's Apology and Request for Regulatory Relief
For the second time in two days, the airline issued an apology on Thursday. IndiGo has requested relief from regulations limiting pilots' duty hours, which have contributed to its operational difficulties. The airline indicated that full restoration of operations may take until February 10, 2026, over two months away. IndiGo warned that further cancellations would continue for the next two to three days as it attempts to stabilize its schedule, starting with reduced flights from December 8. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has not confirmed whether it has accepted this request.
DGCA's Statement on the Disruptions
In a statement late Thursday, the DGCA noted that these disruptions were primarily due to miscalculations and planning deficiencies in implementing Phase 2 of flight duty time limitations. IndiGo representatives acknowledged that the actual crew requirements exceeded their expectations during a briefing with the regulator.
Civil Aviation Minister's Review Meeting
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu held a high-level review meeting with senior officials from the ministry and IndiGo's leadership on Thursday. He instructed the airline to normalize operations as soon as possible and ensure that this crisis does not lead to fare increases. The regulator has directed the Airport Authority of India directors across the country to monitor the situation and assist stranded passengers.
Flight Cancellations on December 5
Delhi: 225
Hyderabad: 92
Bengaluru: 102
Mumbai: 104
Chennai: 31
Pune: 22
Srinagar: 10
Passenger Frustration at Airports
Passengers expressed their anger towards IndiGo regarding the flight cancellations. Many travelers voiced their deep disappointment over the widespread disruption, leaving them stranded without clear updates or alternative travel options. They reported that delays caused by staff shortages and new crew regulations forced them to wait for hours without proper communication, food, or water. One passenger mentioned that they received no information from the airline, and fares for other airlines had doubled.
All IndiGo Flights Canceled from Delhi Airport
As of 23:59 on Friday, all departing flights from Delhi have been canceled, exacerbating the chaos already occurring at the major airport. Passengers at IGI Airport were informed of the complete shutdown as conditions worsened throughout the day. Typically, IndiGo operates around 235 flights from Delhi, leaving hundreds of travelers with no choice but to wait, rebook, or seek alternative travel options.
Rahul Gandhi Blames Government's Monopoly Model for IndiGo Crisis
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed on Friday that the disruptions at IndiGo are a result of the government's 'monopoly model.' He argued that India deserves fair competition across all sectors, rather than what he described as a rigged monopoly.