New Delhi: IndiGo is facing one of its most severe operational setbacks in recent years as widespread cancellations and delays continue to disrupt travel across major airports. More than 100 flights are expected to be cancelled today, adding to the 250 to 300 cancellations reported over the past two days. The aviation regulator has called the airline’s senior officials for a meeting to review the situation and assess its recovery measures.
The airline attributed the crisis to multiple operational challenges that emerged simultaneously, placing significant strain on its network. Technical issues, seasonal schedule shifts, adverse weather, heavy airport congestion and updated crew rostering rules contributed to the mounting delays. IndiGo stated that the combined impact of these factors created a level of disruption that was difficult to foresee.
To stabilise operations, the airline has adjusted its schedules for the next two days. It said these short-term changes are intended to improve punctuality and prevent further cancellations. Passengers affected by the disruptions are being offered alternative flight options or refunds as IndiGo works to restore normal services.
The impact has been particularly visible at major airports. In Bengaluru, long delays triggered frustration among passengers who reported limited communication and overcrowded terminal areas. Hyderabad experienced significant disruption as well, with more than 60 flights cancelled by early morning and several others affected by crew shortages. Chennai and Delhi also saw multiple cancellations, adding to the nationwide travel chaos. Routes to cities such as Kolkata, Goa, Pune and Delhi were among those affected.
In Jammu and Srinagar, crew constraints and technical problems led to additional delays and cancellations. Passengers across various airports expressed their dissatisfaction as wait times extended for several hours, with many describing a lack of clarity from the airline. Social media platforms saw a surge in complaints, with travellers highlighting prolonged delays and inadequate arrangements during the wait.
IndiGo, which operates around 2,200 flights each day, acknowledged the large-scale disruption and apologised to customers. A key challenge has been a shortage of pilots and cabin crew following the implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitation norms, which mandate longer rest periods and stricter duty-hour regulations.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is reviewing the airline’s November performance data, which shows more than 1,200 cancellations last month, including a significant number linked to crew availability and the new duty-time norms. The regulator has asked for corrective measures to ensure improvement in flight reliability.
IndiGo expects its operations to gradually return to normal as temporary scheduling adjustments take effect over the next 48 hours.
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