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IndiGo Airlines, known for its strong record of punctuality, is currently struggling with widespread cancellations and delays that have continued for a week. The airline has cancelled around 550 flights over the past few days, leading to major disruptions such as overcrowded airports, frustrated passengers, and skyrocketing ticket prices.
Major airports in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru have witnessed flights being cancelled at unusual hours. The situation has primarily arisen due to a shortage of manpower within the airline. Matters worsened after the implementation of the new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules, which restrict the time pilots and crew can spend in the air. These rules were rolled out in phases following a directive from the Delhi High Court, and it was reported that the airline had not been adhering to the guidelines.
According to reports, IndiGo’s on-time performance (OTP) plunged to 19.7 per cent. In comparison, 65 per cent of IndiGo’s 2,200 flights were delayed on Tuesday, and around 50 per cent were delayed on Monday. This marks a sharp decline from the airline’s punctuality levels of 84.1 per cent in October and 67.7 per cent in November.
The delays and cancellations left many passengers stranded at airports for up to 12 hours. Due to a shortage of seating, some travellers were forced to sit on the floor.
Monitor the airline's website
In case of delays or cancellations, passengers are strongly advised to monitor the airline’s website and app frequently. Flight schedules are changing rapidly, and reaching the airport too early may lead to more inconvenience.
If a flight is cancelled, travellers may opt for alternative transportation instead of waiting in long queues at the airport.
Don’t forget to claim your refund
IndiGo has stated that it is offering alternative travel arrangements or refunds, as applicable. Passengers should check the latest flight status at the airline's website before heading to the airport.
What about travel insurance?
If your travel insurance policy covers delays and cancellations, ensure you retain all documentation and timestamps. Compensation often depends on proof of delay.
IndiGo has announced calibrated schedule changes for the next 48 hours to restore stability. However, aviation experts remain sceptical about whether workforce shortages can be resolved so quickly. For passengers, the key is to prepare for unpredictability rather than assume that operations will return to normal immediately.
Who owns IndiGo?
IndiGo is owned by InterGlobe Aviation Limited, which was co-founded by Rahul Bhatia and Rakesh Gangwal.
Rahul Bhatia’s InterGlobe Group remains the largest shareholder, while Gangwal has gradually reduced his stake in recent years.
