IndiGo Crisis: Government Orders Investigation and Promises Flight Schedule Normalization Within 3 Days

Naidu confirmed that refunds for cancelled flights will be processed automatically without passenger intervention.

New Delhi:

Bringing welcome relief to affected passengers, the Centre has announced that IndiGo flight schedules are expected to stabilize by Saturday with complete normalization anticipated within three days, by Monday.

In a statement released Friday, when IndiGo's cancellations exceeded 500 flights for the second consecutive day, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced a high-level investigation with accountability measures. Shortly thereafter, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) established a four-member committee to investigate the circumstances behind the widespread delays and cancellations.

Addressing the suspension of certain Flight Duty Time Limitations provisions, which ensure adequate rest for pilots and crew, Naidu emphasized this was implemented to prioritize passenger interests while maintaining safety standards.

"Besides these measures, several operational directives have been issued to ensure prompt restoration of normal airline services and minimize traveler inconvenience. With immediate implementation of these directives, we expect flight schedules to begin stabilizing by tomorrow. We anticipate complete service restoration within the next three days," the minister stated.

Outlining passenger assistance measures, Naidu explained that airlines must provide timely and accurate updates allowing travelers to check flight status before departing from home. He emphasized that cancellation refunds will be processed automatically without requiring passenger follow-up, and airlines will arrange accommodations for passengers experiencing extended delays.

"Senior citizens and differently abled individuals will receive priority treatment, including lounge access and comprehensive assistance to ensure comfortable travel experiences. Additionally, refreshments and essential services will be provided to all passengers affected by flight delays," he added.

The aviation minister confirmed the government's decision to launch a high-level investigation into the disruptions, with measures to prevent future recurrences.

"The inquiry will examine IndiGo's operational failures, establish accountability where necessary, and recommend preventive measures to avoid similar disruptions that cause passenger hardship in the future," he explained.

In its order establishing the inquiry committee, the DGCA noted that airlines received sufficient time to comply with revised Flight Duty Time Limitations, highlighting that IndiGo reported the highest cancellations in November.

"This indicates prima facie deficiencies in internal oversight, operational preparedness, and compliance planning, warranting independent examination. Therefore, a four-member committee has been established to conduct a comprehensive review and assessment of the circumstances leading to this massive scheduled flight disruption," the regulator stated.

The DGCA has implemented at least three modifications to the Flight Duty Time Limitations, including extending the maximum consecutive pilot flight hours from 12 to 14. Opposition members and industry experts have criticized this move, accusing the government of yielding to pressure from IndiGo, which controls approximately two-thirds of India's domestic air traffic.

Naidu defended the measures as necessary for passenger welfare while maintaining safety standards.

"The DGCA's Flight Duty Time Limitations orders have been temporarily suspended with immediate effect. This decision, made without compromising air safety, serves the interests of passengers, particularly senior citizens, students, patients, and others who depend on timely air travel for essential needs," the minister explained.

"Passenger care, safety, and convenience remain the highest priorities of the Government of India," he concluded.