MoCA takes serious note of operational disruptions and cancellations of flights across IndiGo’s network

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has taken serious note of the recent operational disruptions and flight cancellations across IndiGo’s network. Here are the key points from the official press release:

What Happened
- IndiGo faced widespread cancellations and delays, attributed to challenges in crew planning, implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms, and seasonal weather constraints.
- The disruptions caused inconvenience to passengers across major airports in India.

Government Response
- Civil Aviation Minister Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu chaired a high-level review meeting with IndiGo’s senior management, along with officials from DGCA, Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the Ministry.
- The Minister expressed clear displeasure at how the airline handled the situation, stressing that IndiGo had ample preparatory time to ensure a smooth transition to new regulatory requirements.
- IndiGo was directed to:
- Urgently normalize operations.
- Ensure no increase in airfares due to disruptions.
- Proactively inform passengers of cancellations well in advance.
- Provide necessary facilities like hotel accommodation for stranded passengers.

Monitoring & Oversight
- DGCA has been instructed to conduct strict real-time monitoring of IndiGo’s operations, including field inspections at major airports.
- Officers have been deployed to IndiGo’s operational control centers for continuous oversight.
- Airport directors across India have been asked to extend full support to stranded passengers.

Broader Implications
This intervention highlights MoCA’s commitment to:
- Passenger rights and safety.
- Ensuring airlines comply with fatigue management regulations.
- Maintaining stability in air travel operations during peak travel seasons.