Delhi High Court Slams Regulators Over IndiGo Flight Chaos and Sky-High Fares

The Delhi High Court has sharply criticized aviation authorities for failing to protect passengers during a major airline disruption. This comes after IndiGo cancelled over 2,000 flights recently. The court questioned why the situation was allowed to escalate, causing widespread passenger distress and predatory fare hikes by other carriers.

Judges highlighted that tickets on some routes jumped from ₹5,000 to nearly ₹40,000. They demanded answers from the Civil Aviation Ministry and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The hearing was based on a public interest litigation seeking urgent relief for stranded travelers.

Government Outlines Emergency Measures Amid Ongoing Crisis

In court, government lawyers detailed steps taken to manage the IndiGo flight cancellations. According to the assistant solicitor general, authorities directed IndiGo to cut 10% of its flights. They also imposed temporary fare caps on all airlines to prevent price gouging during the crisis.

A real-time control room has been established to monitor the situation. The DGCA has launched a formal inquiry and is considering penalties against the airline. These could include restrictions under the Aircraft Act for operational failures.

Passengers affected by cancellations are entitled to automatic refunds. The airline has also been instructed to provide hotel accommodations and lounge access. Priority assistance is mandated for vulnerable groups, including senior citizens.

Root Cause Traced to New Pilot Fatigue Rules

The core of the problem stems from new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules. These regulations, designed to combat pilot fatigue, were fully implemented in November. They mandate stricter rest hours and reduce night landings.

While most airlines adapted, IndiGo struggled with roster adjustments. The airline operates a vast network, including many monopoly routes. This lack of competition meant cancellations instantly reduced capacity and spiked fares across the board.

To prevent a total breakdown, regulators granted IndiGo temporary relief from some FDTL clauses. This was described as a reluctant, one-time measure. The DGCA has since summoned IndiGo’s CEO to explain the planning failures.

The court has demanded concrete action on passenger compensation and systemic fixes. The next hearing is scheduled for January 21, as authorities work to restore normalcy to India’s aviation sector.

Info at your fingertips

Why did IndiGo cancel so many flights?

The cancellations were primarily due to crew shortages. The airline failed to properly align its schedules with new government rules limiting pilot flying hours and mandating more rest to combat fatigue.

What is the government doing about high airfares?

The DGCA has imposed temporary fare caps on all airlines on specific routes affected by the cancellations. They are also monitoring daily fare submissions to prevent predatory pricing during the disruption.

Are passengers eligible for refunds from IndiGo?

Yes. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has mandated that IndiGo provide automatic refunds to all passengers on cancelled flights. The airline must also offer hotel stays or lounge access where applicable.

What are the new FDTL rules for pilots?

The revised Flight Duty Time Limitation rules increase weekly rest periods for pilots and reduce the number of permitted night landings. The final phase of these fatigue management rules took effect in November.

Will IndiGo face penalties for this disruption?

Yes. The DGCA has issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo and an inquiry is underway. Regulators are considering actions under the Aircraft Act, which can include fines or operational restrictions.