Why Are Over 400 IndiGo Flights Cancelled Amid Ongoing Crisis?
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Synopsis
As the crisis continues, IndiGo has cancelled over 400 domestic flights, leaving many passengers stranded. Indian Railways has stepped up to provide extra coaches and special train services to accommodate the surge in demand. This situation highlights the need for effective planning in aviation and public transport.
Key Takeaways
- 405 flights cancelled by IndiGo due to pilot shortage.
- Indian Railways added 116 extra coaches across 37 trains.
- Operational issues may persist for several days.
- Passengers are expressing frustration over delays.
- Special train services introduced for additional support.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (NationPress) IndiGo has announced the cancellation of 405 domestic flights as the ongoing crisis affecting the airline continues into its fifth day. In response, Indian Railways has stepped in to assist distressed passengers by adding extra coaches to various trains to manage the influx of travelers.
Operating around 2,300 flights daily and maintaining a fleet of over 400 aircraft, IndiGo has seen a significant drop in its punctuality due to persistent operational challenges that are expected to endure for several more days.
The primary cause of the crisis is attributed to an unforeseen pilot shortage stemming from inadequate planning, with authorities actively monitoring the situation.
Passengers across airports nationwide have expressed their dissatisfaction as they face delays and cancellations of their flights.
In light of increased demand following the widespread cancellations, the Indian Railways has deployed 116 additional coaches across 37 premium trains, facilitating 114 enhanced trips across the country.
The Railway Ministry noted that Southern Railway reported the most augmentations, boosting capacity on 18 trains.
“Additional Chair Car and Sleeper Class coaches have been added to high-demand routes. These enhancements, starting from December 6, 2025, significantly increase accommodation in the southern region,” stated the ministry.
“Northern Railway (NR) follows with upgrades on eight trains, adding 3AC and Chair Car coaches. These measures, effective today, improve availability on heavily trafficked northern corridors,” it added.
Moreover, Western Railway has bolstered four high-demand trains with the addition of 3AC and 2AC coaches, effective December 6, to cater to the significant passenger movement from western states to the national capital.
Officials confirmed that East Central Railway has expanded capacity on the Rajendra Nagar–New Delhi (12309) service by incorporating 2AC coaches for five trips scheduled from December 6 to 10, enhancing connectivity on the vital Bihar–Delhi route.
Similarly, East Coast Railway has reinforced the Bhubaneswar–New Delhi services (Trains 20817/20811/20823) by adding 2AC coaches for five trips, improving travel options between Odisha and the capital.
Indian Railway Board's Executive Director of Information and Publicity (EDIP) Dilip Kumar stated, “In light of the surge in passenger numbers, Indian Railways has opted to add extra coaches to several trains and is preparing to operate special trains. Currently, 116 extra coaches are being added to 37 trains, and preparations are underway accordingly.”
In addition to these augmentations, four special train services are being introduced to further assist travelers. The Gorakhpur–Anand Vihar Terminal–Gorakhpur Special (05591/05592) will operate four trips between December 7 and 9.
The New Delhi–Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan–New Delhi Reserved Vande Bharat Special (02439/02440) will operate on December 6, providing quick connectivity to the Jammu region.
To meet high demand for the western sector, the New Delhi–Mumbai Central–New Delhi Reserved Superfast Special (04002/04001) will run on December 6 and 7.
Additionally, the Hazrat Nizamuddin–Thiruvananthapuram Central Reserved Superfast Special (04080) will operate one way on December 6, offering long-distance connectivity to the south.
Point of View
The ongoing crisis at IndiGo raises questions about operational preparedness in the aviation sector. The swift response from Indian Railways demonstrates a commendable commitment to public service. It is crucial for both airlines and railways to enhance their logistics and planning to prevent such disruptions in the future.
NationPress
06/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the cancellation of IndiGo flights?
The cancellations are primarily due to an unexpected pilot shortage stemming from planning issues.
How many flights were cancelled?
A total of 405 domestic flights were cancelled.
What measures is Indian Railways taking?
Indian Railways has added 116 extra coaches to 37 premium trains to accommodate the increased passenger demand.
When did these changes take effect?
The augmentations began from December 6, 2025.
Are there any special train services being introduced?
Yes, four special train services have been introduced to assist travelers during this crisis.
