What is the Latest Advisory from Delhi Airport Amid IndiGo's Operational Crisis?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Delhi Airport has issued an advisory for passengers.
- IndiGo is experiencing significant operational disruptions.
- Over 500 flights were cancelled recently.
- Passengers should verify flight statuses directly with their airlines.
- Normal operations are expected to resume by February 10, 2026.
New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) The Delhi Airport has released a passenger advisory urging all travellers to confirm their flight status with their respective airlines before arriving at the airport. This guidance follows a significant operational crisis at IndiGo, which has led to a large number of cancellations and delays in recent times.
On Thursday alone, over 500 flights were scrapped, with many more experiencing delays. In the month of November, IndiGo reported a staggering total of 1,232 cancellations across its operations.
The advisory posted on the social media platform X stated, "We advise passengers that operational challenges affecting certain domestic services are leading to flight delays and cancellations."
"We highly recommend that travellers check their flight status directly with their airline prior to making their way to the airport. Our dedicated on-ground teams are working tirelessly with all partners to minimize disruptions and ensure a comfortable travel experience. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation," stated Delhi Airport.
In a related development, Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), convened an urgent review meeting with the senior management of IndiGo to evaluate the current situation. The Ministry has been actively monitoring the disruptions and has stepped up oversight. The Minister also instructed the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to ensure that airport directors offer full support to affected passengers. Furthermore, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been tasked with monitoring ticket prices amid concerns over potential fare increases due to reduced capacity.
On Thursday, the DGCA held a comprehensive meeting with IndiGo's leadership to seek explanations for the recent surge in cancellations. IndiGo attributed these issues to operational challenges related to the implementation of Phase II of the revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms, along with crew scheduling difficulties and seasonal winter conditions.
The updated FDTL Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR), which took effect on July 1 and November 1 following court rulings, are designed to enhance safety and mitigate pilot fatigue. During the meeting, IndiGo recognized that they had underestimated crew requirements under the new system, leading to planning gaps and staff shortages.
IndiGo has indicated that disruptions may persist for the next few days as they work towards stabilization. Starting December 8, the airline will temporarily lower its flight frequency to lessen passenger inconvenience. The airline has also requested a temporary relaxation of certain FDTL rules for A320 aircraft until February 10, 2026, assuring the DGCA that normal operations will be fully restored by that date.