IndiGo Faces Nationwide Chaos: Over 600 Flights Cancelled Amid Pilot Shortage and FDTL Non-Compliance

IndiGo is experiencing a significant operational crisis, leading to the cancellation of over 600 flights nationwide for a third consecutive day. Delhi Airport has been severely affected, with all flights cancelled until midnight, stranding thousands of passengers.

Major cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, and Srinagar have also reported widespread disruptions. The airline attributes the chaos to a severe pilot shortage, resulting in a low pilot-to-aircraft ratio.

This situation has been exacerbated by IndiGos non-compliance with the second phase of Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms, which are designed to ensure adequate rest for pilots. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Civil Aviation Ministry are actively reviewing the situation. IndiGo has apologised for the disruptions and stated that stable operations are expected to be fully restored between 10th and 26th February.