Why Did IndiGo Shares Plummet Over 6.5% Amid Ongoing Flight Disruptions?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- IndiGo shares fell sharply due to operational disruptions.
- The DGCA issued a show-cause notice regarding these disruptions.
- IndiGo is working to stabilize its operations by December 10.
- Over 220 flights were canceled, impacting numerous passengers.
- Regulatory scrutiny highlights the need for better operational management.
Mumbai, Dec 8 (NationPress) Shares of InterGlobe Aviation, which operates IndiGo Airlines, faced a notable decline in the early trading session on Monday, plunging by 6.6 percent to an intra-day low of Rs 5,015 on the BSE.
Nevertheless, the stock rebounded later, with shares trading at Rs 5,159.50 by around 9:45 a.m., reflecting a decrease of Rs 211 or 3.93 percent.
This sell-off was triggered by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) extending the period for IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers to respond to a show-cause notice related to the airline's recent operational issues.
The aviation regulator had issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo’s accountable manager on Sunday, just a day after a similar notice was sent to CEO Pieter Elbers.
The DGCA pointed out that the airline's massive wave of cancellations over the past week has caused considerable inconvenience and distress to travelers across the nation.
According to the regulator, these disruptions were primarily due to IndiGo’s inadequate planning regarding the implementation of the revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) rules.
These regulations, which establish duty hours and mandatory rest periods for flight crews, recently came into effect, presenting significant operational challenges for the airline.
In its notice, the DGCA highlighted that IndiGo’s “large-scale operational failures” indicate major deficiencies in planning, oversight, and resource management.
The accountable manager has been granted 24 hours to provide an explanation as to why enforcement actions should not be taken. If the airline does not respond within the extended deadline, the DGCA has stated it will act based on the available information.
Despite increasing regulatory pressure, IndiGo announced on Sunday that it has restored 95 percent of its network and aims to operate approximately 1,500 flights.
The airline claims its operations are on track to stabilize by December 10, with improved on-time performance and fewer cancellations.
However, more than 220 flights had already been canceled at major airports by the time of reporting, further complicating the situation for thousands of passengers.