Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport witnessed unprecedented passenger disruption on December 3 as numerous IndiGo flights faced significant delays and cancellations. The chaos was compounded by passengers expressing outrage over long wait times and lack of timely updates. The disruption, however, was not confined to Mumbai, with multiple airports nationwide reporting similar issues.

Reports indicate that around 32 flights, including 16 arrivals and departures, were cancelled at Mumbai alone due to an acute crew shortage. The airline struggled to deploy sufficient crew to operate scheduled flights, leading to widespread operational challenges. Sources suggest that over 130 flights faced cancellations across major Indian airports on the same day.

IndiGo had to cancel more than 70 flights nationwide, including critical routes from Bengaluru and Mumbai. Delhi airport also reported significant disruptions, with ANI confirming that 38 flights were cancelled due to a combination of technical issues and operational requirements. Passengers were left stranded, causing frustration and concern about timely travel.

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The airline has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, as travelers demanded better communication and prompt resolutions. Some passengers reported long queues at help desks, delayed boarding information, and minimal assistance for rescheduling flights. The widespread cancellations have raised questions about IndiGo’s preparedness amid growing passenger volumes during the peak season.

IndiGo has yet to release a detailed public statement explaining the scale of the disruption, though sources suggest the airline is working to redeploy crew and restore operations as quickly as possible. The carrier is also reportedly exploring contingency measures to minimize further delays and cancellations in the coming days.

The December 3 disruption underscores broader operational challenges facing airlines in India, particularly during high-demand periods. Analysts suggest that crew shortages, technical issues, and scheduling constraints could continue to impact passengers if immediate corrective measures are not implemented. Travelers are advised to check flight status updates and plan accordingly.

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