Govt Suspends Flight Duty Time Limitations Amid IndiGo Chaos
New Delhi: The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced immediate corrective steps on Friday in response to widespread disruption in flight schedules, especially by IndiGo. Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) instructions of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have been canceled with immediate effect. The ministry said this move was taken without compromising air safety and is aimed at protecting passengers, especially senior citizens, students, patients and others who need timely air travel.
Various operational measures were implemented to quickly return to normal operations. The ministry expects flight schedules to begin stabilizing from tomorrow and services to be fully restored within three days.
Airlines have been directed to provide regular and accurate updates to passengers through advanced online information systems that allow passengers to track real-time flight status from home. In the event of cancellation, airlines should automatically issue full refunds without passengers having to apply. Hotel accommodation will be provided by the airlines for those stranded due to long delays.
Special priority is given to senior citizens and people with disabilities, who will receive lounge access and special assistance. Refreshments and basic services will be offered to all passengers affected by the delay.
The Ministry has also established a 24/7 Control Room (011-24610843, 011-24693963, 096503-91859) to monitor the situation in real time and ensure rapid corrective action and coordination among stakeholders.
The Government of India has ordered a high-level investigation into the outage, which will investigate the disruptions at IndiGo, determine responsibility and recommend measures to prevent future incidents. According to the ministry, the government is fully aware of the challenges faced by passengers and is in constant consultation with airlines and other stakeholders. All necessary steps, including regulatory relaxations permitted by DGCA, are being taken to stabilize operations and ensure passenger safety, comfort and care.
