IndiGo Faces Massive Backlash as Flight Disruptions Hit 7th Day: 200+ Cancellations, ₹610 Crore Refunds Processed
India’s leading low-cost carrier IndiGo grapples with its worst operational meltdown in two decades, now stretching into the seventh consecutive day. Triggered by a critical pilot shortage following stricter government rules on flight duty timings, the crisis has grounded hundreds of flights daily, stranding lakhs of travelers during peak wedding season.
Government Cracks Down with Probes and Exemptions
Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu vows “strict action” against IndiGo to deter future lapses, blaming the carrier’s poor planning despite two years of notice on new pilot rest norms. DGCA issued show-cause notices to CEO Pieter Elbers, granting a one-time extension till 6 PM today for response, while imposing temporary fare caps to curb price gouging by rivals.
Opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi slam the episode as fallout from aviation “monopolies,” fueling heated Parliament debates. IndiGo aims for normalcy by December 10-15, with a crisis team working overtime and waivers on rescheduling fees till mid-December.
Passenger Fury at Major Airports
- Delhi IGI: 75 departures, 59 arrivals axed; advisory urges status checks.
- Bengaluru: 127 flights impacted; long queues reported.
- Mumbai & Ahmedabad: 20+ cancellations each, plus widespread delays.
- International routes also hit, affecting Goa, Northeast, and beyond.
IndiGo apologizes via CEO video, citing “planning gaps,” as stranded passengers demand compensation beyond refunds. The saga underscores risks of over-reliance on one airline, prompting calls for better sector oversight.
Stay tuned to State Correspondents for live updates on aviation woes, job alerts, and J&K news.
