Massive Disruptions Shake the Nation’s Largest Airline
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, faced severe operational disruptions over the past two days, resulting in the cancellation of more than 600 flights. Airports across the country experienced unprecedented chaos as travelers struggled to cope with delays and cancellations. On Thursday alone, over 400 flights were grounded due to what the airline described as “misjudgment and planning gaps.”
Government Review and Airline Response
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu convened a review meeting with officials from his ministry and IndiGo to assess the situation. During the discussions, the airline requested additional time until February 10, 2026, to fully stabilize its operations, citing operational and logistical challenges.
Sharp Decline in Punctuality
IndiGo, typically known for high on-time performance, reported a dramatic drop in punctuality over the disruption period. On Wednesday, the airline’s on-time performance fell to just 19.7%, down from 35% recorded the previous day.
Flight Cancellations and Passenger Strain
The disruptions have left tens of thousands of passengers stranded. IndiGo issued apologies twice in two days, assuring the public that its teams were working with the support of MOCA, DGCA, BCAS, AAI, and airport operators to restore normalcy.
Sources revealed that more than 550 domestic and international flights were cancelled on Thursday alone. Specific airport cancellations included:
- Bengaluru: 99 flights
- Hyderabad: 79 flights
- Delhi: ~150 flights
- Mumbai: 118 flights
These cancellations followed earlier disruptions, including at least 150 flights cancelled on Wednesday.
Operational Challenges and DGCA Findings
DGCA inspections at Delhi Airport’s Terminal 1 highlighted that IndiGo had insufficient passenger-handling staff, which contributed to severe crowding and operational delays.
When Will IndiGo Resume Normal Operations?
IndiGo requested relief from regulations limiting pilot duty hours at night, stating that normal operations would likely resume only by February 10, 2026. The airline also warned that additional cancellations would occur over the next two to three days as part of schedule stabilization measures starting December 8.
The DGCA confirmed that the disruptions primarily resulted from planning gaps during Phase 2 implementation of Flight Duty Time Limitations, with crew requirements exceeding the airline’s initial estimates.
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