IndiGo, India’s largest airline, is facing its worst operational crisis, cancelling over 500 domestic flights daily amid severe crew shortages triggered by new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules from the DGCA. These regulations mandate 48-hour weekly pilot rest (up from 36 hours) and limit night operations, causing a cascade of disruptions since December 2, 2025. On December 3 alone, over 200 flights were axed, with Bengaluru (42), Delhi (38), and Mumbai (33) hit hardest, alongside delays pushing airfares to ₹70,000 on popular routes like Delhi-Mumbai (minimum ₹20,000).
Affected routes include Delhi-Mumbai, Bengaluru-Hyderabad, Mumbai-Goa, and Chennai connections, stranding thousands at major airports amid winter fog, congestion, and technical glitches. Passengers report hours-long waits, poor communication, and refund delays, with social media flooded by complaints. IndiGo’s on-time performance dropped to 35%, prompting DGCA investigations and government fare caps.
The airline apologizes, offering refunds, waivers until December 15, and “calibrated adjustments,” aiming for normalcy by December 10-15 via crew rescheduling. CEO Pieter Elbers cited planning gaps, while experts warn of eroded trust. Travelers should check status on goindigo.in and consider alternatives like Air India Express.
Key Points:
- Over 500 daily cancellations since Dec 2 due to FDTL crew shortages, weather, and congestion.
- Worst-hit: Bengaluru (42), Delhi (38), Mumbai (33); fares up to ₹70,000 (min ₹20,000).
- DGCA probe; govt caps fares; refunds/waivers offered till Dec 15.
- Normalization expected by Dec 10-15; check real-time status via app/website.
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