Operational disruptions at IndiGo have led to the cancellation of more than 900 flights, sparking widespread frustration among passengers. The sudden spike in cancellations has also driven airfares of other airlines sharply upward. After being pulled up by the DGCA, IndiGo issued a public apology for the inconvenience caused. Amid the chaos, a key question has emerged: Is IndiGo on the brink of collapse?
Passenger Outrage and Protests
With hundreds of flights being cancelled, airports across the country witnessed chaos. Angry passengers staged protests against the airline, demanding answers. IndiGo has stated that affected travellers are being offered alternative travel arrangements or refunds where necessary.
What Went Wrong?
A combination of issues triggered IndiGo’s operational downfall:
Winter schedule changes
Bad weather
Increased air traffic congestion
New crew rostering rules
These factors, coupled with a massive crew shortage, severely disrupted operations. The airline, once known for its punctuality, is now dealing with delays stretching for hours or outright cancellations.
Over 1,200 Flights Cancelled Since November
According to the DGCA, IndiGo cancelled 1,232 flights in November alone—755 due to crew availability and FDTL rules. Additional cancellations were caused by ATC system failures (92), airport/airspace restrictions (258), and other operational factors (127).
Holiday Travel in Jeopardy
With Christmas and New Year approaching—a peak travel season—many passengers fear their holiday plans will be ruined. IndiGo has warned that it may take 2–3 months for operations to return fully to normal.
IndiGo Issues an Apology
In a statement posted on X, IndiGo said its teams are working with MOCA, DGCA, BCAS, AAI and airport authorities to stabilise the situation. The airline assured passengers they would be notified of any flight changes and urged them to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
IndiGo added that it “deeply regrets” the inconvenience caused.
Political Pressure Mounts
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has issued a suspension motion notice in the Lok Sabha to discuss the disruptions at IndiGo, saying the chaos has affected travellers nationwide.
As India’s largest airline, IndiGo’s reputation has taken a severe hit. Many are now worried that the crisis could push the airline down a path similar to other major private carriers that eventually shut down—like Jet Airways.
