India’s aviation sector is under scrutiny after IndiGo canceled around 4,500 flights in December, leaving thousands of passengers stranded nationwide. The cancellations were primarily due to pilot shortages at the airline, which commands roughly 65% of India’s domestic aviation market. The government has now asked IndiGo and other carriers to provide detailed fare data amid concerns over price surges during the crisis.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is investigating whether IndiGo abused its dominant market position during the disruptions. Several complaints allege that the airline canceled flights and subsequently sold seats at significantly higher prices. While IndiGo has not publicly commented, the probe has intensified after passengers reported sharp fare increases on popular routes.

In a recent communication, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) requested fare data from IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Akasa for the period December 1–15, 2025. The data requested covers average fares for both economy and premium economy seats, as well as fares on routes affected by cancellations. Government officials say this information will help regulators understand pricing trends during the operational disruptions.

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Other airlines have either not responded or declined to comment on the request. A government source indicated that the inquiry is limited to routes affected by IndiGo’s cancellations, with no evidence suggesting a broader examination of other airlines. Authorities are focused on whether fare spikes during the crisis were exploitative or reflective of normal market dynamics.

The December flight chaos prompted temporary fare caps by the government to protect passengers from excessive charges. While the caps provided short-term relief, the ongoing investigation highlights long-standing concerns about competition and pricing practices in India’s rapidly growing aviation market.

As the probe unfolds, both passengers and the industry are watching closely. The outcome could have significant implications for IndiGo’s market behavior, fare regulation policies, and broader antitrust oversight in India’s aviation sector.

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