The Centre has ordered IndiGo to scale down its flight operations by 10 percent following weeks of severe disruptions that led to thousands of cancellations and widespread passenger inconvenience. The directive, announced after a detailed review of the airline’s performance, aims to stabilise operations and prevent further chaos during the peak travel season.
Officials said the decision was taken as IndiGo continued to struggle with crew shortages and rostering issues under the newly implemented flight duty time limitations for pilots. The airline had already been instructed earlier to reduce its schedule by 5 percent, but ongoing disruptions prompted the government to double the reduction.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation stated that IndiGo will be allowed to operate only 90 percent of its approved winter schedule. The move is expected to ease operational pressure and ensure that the airline runs a more realistic timetable. IndiGo, however, will continue flying to all existing destinations.
Authorities have also directed the carrier to clear all pending passenger refunds and return unclaimed baggage at the earliest. The government is monitoring the situation closely and may impose further measures if needed.
The widespread cancellations — the worst aviation disruption in recent years — have highlighted concerns about airline preparedness, crew management and the need for stricter operational oversight. The government said normalcy is expected to return gradually as the trimmed schedule takes effect.