Delhi Airport Flooded with Unclaimed Bags as IndiGo Struggles to Reunite Luggage

The IndiGo flight disruption appears to be easing after nearly a week, with the airline operational across 137 out of 138 destinations, but passengers continue to face significant issues with delayed or lost luggage. Visuals from Delhi airport show hundreds of bags piled up in the arrivals area, with passengers complaining of not receiving their belongings even 24 hours after landing.

Videos shared by news outlets, including ANI, depict airline staff assisting passengers in locating their luggage amid long queues and unclaimed baggage. One Srinagar-bound passenger, visibly distressed, told reporters, “I don’t want a refund, just return my luggage. There are important papers worth lakhs in it.” The situation highlights the continuing challenge for ground staff even as flights gradually return to schedule.

Mumbai travelers also reported missing luggage, affecting essentials such as clothes, documents, and medicines. Passenger Sachin, whose luggage included his baby's medicines, recounted delays of four days, with staff unable to locate the bags despite promises of home delivery. Such cases underscore the logistical strain faced by IndiGo’s baggage handling teams following widespread cancellations and rescheduling.

Also Read: SpiceJet’s “Calm in Chaos” Post Takes Aim at IndiGo’s Flight Cancellation Mess

The aviation ministry confirmed that IndiGo has so far delivered 3,000 pieces of baggage across India since a 48-hour directive was issued to trace and return unclaimed items. Minister Ram Mohan Naidu emphasized that all separated luggage must be delivered to passengers' residential or chosen addresses within 48 hours, underscoring the urgency to restore passenger trust.

Passengers and consumer rights advocates have criticized the airline for poor communication and handling during the crisis. Many reported repeated follow-ups with staff, long waiting periods, and conflicting information about the whereabouts of their belongings. The ministry has urged IndiGo to prioritize transparency and efficient delivery to avoid further inconvenience.

Despite these baggage challenges, the resumption of most IndiGo flights provides some relief for travelers, allowing millions to reach their destinations after days of disruption. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with the focus now shifting to efficient baggage reconciliation and preventing similar operational failures in the future.

Also Read: IndiGo Finally Bounces Back – Over 1,500 Flights Resume Today After Massive Disruption