IndiGo cancels over 550 flights, seeks relief from new pilot duty norms for A320 aircraft, promises operational stability by…
In his statement, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said that the airline has requested temporary operational exemption from certain Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) provisions for its A320 fleet until February 10, 2026, and assured that operational stability will be achieved by this date.
India’s largest airline IndiGo is experiencing ongoing operational disruptions, with more than 550 domestic and international flights canceled and widespread delays affecting hundreds of passengers at many airports. This marks the third consecutive day of disruption, causing serious disruption to the travel plan.
In his statement, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said that the airline has requested temporary operational exemption from certain Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) provisions for its A320 fleet until February 10, 2026, and assured that operational stability will be achieved by this date.
IndiGo wants to get rid of FDTL norms
Following a detailed review meeting with IndiGo’s senior leadership, chaired by DGCA on Thursday, the regulator said: “To reduce inconvenience to passengers while maintaining safety margins, IndiGo has sought operational changes or exemptions from certain FDTL provisions for A320 operations by February 10, 2026. IndiGo has assured DGCA that corrective measures are in progress and normalized and stable operations will be fully restored by February 10, 2026.” gave.
IndiGo is experiencing a sharp increase in cancellations, with around 170-200 flights per day, much higher than usual.
During a detailed review meeting, the DGCA found that IndiGo’s operational failures were due to transition difficulties in the implementation of Phase 2 of the revised FDTL norms, crew scheduling gaps and winter season restrictions. The revised fatigue management rules, implemented in accordance with court instructions, came into force in two phases, July 1 and November 1, 2025.
According to the press note, IndiGo admitted that it had misjudged crew requirements under the new FDTL regulations, leading to shortages, especially in night operations, where most of the available slots had fallen.
DGCA inspections at major airports
Inspections carried out by DGCA at major airports, including Delhi’s Terminal 1, revealed that the Airline’s manpower to carry passengers was insufficient, leading to an urgent reinforcement order.
“The team observed that IndiGo’s passenger-facing manpower was insufficient to manage the crowds resulting from the disruption. The airline has been instructed to immediately increase manpower and strengthen passenger support services at all affected terminals,” the press note said. The statement was included.
IndiGo has been tasked with providing a comprehensive roadmap for crew recruitment, training, staff restructuring and security risk assessments, as well as bi-weekly progress reports.
“IndiGo will submit a detailed roadmap covering anticipated crew recruitment for induction of aircraft, which will be reviewed by DGCA. Plan of crew training, staff restructuring, safety-risk assessments and mitigation measures to ensure full compliance with immediate effect. Mitigation Plan against Current Disruptions: The airline should outline immediate steps to stabilize operations and ensure a gradual reduction in cancellations. Bi-Weekly Progress Reports: A detailed progress report every 15 days, covering the following should be submitted: DGCA is directed to submit for DGCA review the FDTL relaxations required to normalize flight operations with a view to ensuring operational improvements, crew availability and staff stability,” the DGCA memo said. statements were included.
Earlier on Thursday, the airline issued an apology to customers and industry stakeholders.
(With inputs from ANI)
