IndiGo Crisis Day 5: Over 400 Flights Cancelled Across Major Airports — Key Updates
IndiGo’s nationwide flight disruptions entered Day 5 with over 400 cancellations across major airports due to pilot rostering issues. The airline has apologised, issued refunds, and arranged support for stranded passengers as the Civil Aviation Ministry launches a formal probe.
Stranded passengers wait at major airports as IndiGo cancels over 400 flights nationwide amid ongoing pilot rostering issues.
IndiGo, the biggest airline in India, went on with the operational troubles that affected its operations all over the country and on Saturday, it cancelled over 400 flights that mostly were going to or coming from the four main airports but it still got the temporary relief from the changed pilot duty regulations. The cancellations, caused by the pilot booking problems that have been going on for some time, have made it impossible for many passengers to travel across the country.
The airline has apologized, started automatic refund processing, and provided hotels, transport, and food for the passengers who were impacted. On the other hand, the Civil Aviation Ministry has decided to carry out a formal investigation into the growing crisis.
Mass Cancellations Hit Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi & Hyderabad
According to sources quoted by PTI:
- Bengaluru saw the highest impact with 124 cancelled flights (63 departures, 61 arrivals).
- Mumbai recorded 109 cancellations (51 departures, 58 arrivals).
- Delhi reported 106 cancellations (54 departures, 52 arrivals).
- Hyderabad witnessed 66 cancellations.
Overall, Friday’s disruptions alone saw IndiGo cancel over 1,000 flights, with operational instability spilling into Saturday.
Minister: “This Shouldn’t Be Left Unattended”
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the government is treating the situation as a top priority.
“We will not ignore these disruptions. A committee has been formed to investigate what went wrong and who is responsible,” he said.
The ministry is closely monitoring FDTL norms, scheduling practices, and overall network management as part of the probe.
Flight Chaos in Major Cities
Thiruvananthapuram: 6 cancellations
- Ahmedabad: 19 cancellations (7 arrivals, 12 departures)
- Pune: 42 cancellations (14 arrivals, 28 departures)
- Chennai & Mumbai: Long queues and stranded passengers reported
With IndiGo operating nearly 2,300 flights daily and handling two-thirds of domestic air traffic, the ripple effect of these cancellations has been severe.
DGCA Steps In With Emergency Measures
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday rolled out emergency relief:
- Temporary exemptions in Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL)
- Additional relaxations to increase pilot availability
- Aim: restore operations “at the earliest”
- IndiGo Issues Apology, Promises Refunds and Support
In a statement on X, IndiGo said:
- Refunds will be automatically processed
- Full waiver on cancellations/rescheduling for Dec 5–15, 2025
- Passengers advised not to visit airports if their flight is cancelled
- Thousands of hotel rooms arranged for stranded travellers
- Food, snacks, and lounge access (for senior citizens) provided
Contact centre capacity expanded
“You will see incremental progress. We will do everything to earn back your trust,” the airline said.
Operations Slowly Stabilising
Delhi Airport issued an update stating:
“IndiGo flight operations are steadily resuming and returning to normal. Passengers are advised to check flight status before leaving home.”
The situation, while improving, remains fluid as the airline works to reset rosters and restore its nationwide schedule.
