IndiGo Finally Bounces Back – Over 1,500 Flights Resume Today After Massive Disruption
IndiGo flight cancellations drop sharply as airline restores over 95% of its network after week-long chaos.
Budget airline IndiGo is gradually returning to normal operations after last week’s disruptions triggered by mismanagement of the new Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) for pilots. The airline faced massive cancellations and stranded thousands of passengers nationwide, but Sunday saw fewer disruptions and smoother operations at major airports. Delhi airport, for instance, reported lighter crowds compared to previous days, though cancellations were still noted at cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Guwahati.
IndiGo aims to operate over 1,500 flights by the end of Sunday, restoring connectivity to more than 95% of its network. The carrier now operates to 135 of its 138 destinations, compared to around 2,300 daily flights before the crisis. This marked improvement follows the cancellation of more than 700 flights the previous day, which the airline attributed to rebooting its systems, rosters, and network.
The disruption stemmed from IndiGo’s underestimation of pilot requirements under the new rest-hour rules. The aviation regulator later relaxed some guidelines to help resolve the crisis, while the government criticized the airline for gross mismanagement. A junior aviation minister confirmed that IndiGo has been issued a show-cause notice, requiring a response within 24 hours.
Also Read: Bengaluru 2.0 Unveiled: Karnataka to Build Massive 9,000-Acre AI City + ₹1 Trillion Infra Overhaul
IndiGo has assured that refunds for cancelled flights will be processed to the original mode of payment in compliance with the government’s deadline. The airline’s Board of Directors, including chairman Vikram Mehta and CEO Pieter Elbers, formed a Crisis Management Group to oversee operations and address passenger concerns. Officials emphasized that all efforts are being made to stabilize the network and provide waivers for cancellations or rescheduling.
The crisis has also sparked political debate. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi blamed the government’s “monopoly model” for the situation, while Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu defended government policy, stating that regulatory efforts aim to promote competition in the aviation sector. With networks now largely restored, IndiGo’s recovery will be closely monitored in the coming days to ensure passengers are not further inconvenienced.
Also Read: Tharoor Criticises Congress Disruption Tactics, Says MPs Are Elected to ‘Debate, Not Create Ruckus'
