Indian Government Orders IndiGo to Cut 10% of Flights Following Massive Cancellation Crisis

New Delhi:

The Indian government has mandated that IndiGo, the nation's largest airline, reduce its operations by 10 percent following a significant crisis involving over 2,000 flight cancellations in recent days. This government intervention came despite IndiGo's claims that its operations had returned to normal functioning. With the carrier currently operating approximately 2,200 flights daily, this 10 percent reduction will result in the cancellation of more than 200 flights.

IndiGo acknowledged the directive in a statement on X (formerly Twitter): "The ministry considers it necessary to curtail the overall Indigo routes, which will help in stabilizing the airline's operations and lead to reduced cancellations. A curtailment of 10 percent has been ordered. While abiding with it, IndiGo will continue to cover all its destinations as before."

The airline added: "IndiGo has been instructed to comply with all the directives of the Ministry, including fare capping and passenger convenience measures without any exception."

Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu also addressed the situation on X, noting that many passengers experienced severe inconvenience due to IndiGo's internal mismanagement of crew rosters, flight schedules, and inadequate communication during the previous week. He mentioned that an inquiry and necessary actions were underway following a meeting with IndiGo's top management.

Earlier in the day, IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers was summoned to the Civil Aviation Ministry to provide an operational update, after which the government announced its decision. Initially, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had proposed a 5 percent reduction in IndiGo's services, but the ministry subsequently increased this figure. The regulator has now issued a revised notification to IndiGo.

IndiGo also confirmed that they have completed 100 percent of refunds for flights affected through December 6. The airline received strict instructions to expedite the completion of remaining refunds and baggage delivery.

Prior to his meeting at the ministry, Elbers had claimed on his X handle that the airline was "back on its feet" and thanked customers for their continued support.

The government had previously warned of strong action against IndiGo. Minister Naidu informed parliament that the DGCA had issued show cause notices to IndiGo's leadership and initiated an investigation, stating: "Depending on the outcome, strict and appropriate action as empowered under the aircraft rules and Act will be taken."