What caused the ongoing IndiGo crisis with nearly 100 flights cancelled at Chennai airport?
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Synopsis
The ongoing crisis at Chennai airport, where nearly 100 IndiGo flights have been cancelled, has left many passengers stranded and frustrated. This disruption, caused by a severe staff shortage and new duty-time regulations, has escalated into national concern. With the government stepping in, will normal operations resume soon? Read more for all the details.
Key Takeaways
- Nearly 100 IndiGo flights cancelled at Chennai airport.
- Passengers left stranded due to sudden cancellations.
- Significant staff shortages attributed to new regulations.
- Government intervention aims to stabilize airline operations.
- Flight schedules expected to normalize soon.
Chennai, Dec 7 (NationPress) The turmoil in air travel persists for the sixth consecutive day as almost 100 flights operated by IndiGo were cancelled at Chennai airport, leaving hundreds of travellers in distress.
The extensive cancellations have led to chaos at Chennai International Airport, where worried passengers crowded airline desks in search of last-minute solutions, refunds, and rebookings.
As IndiGo serves as the principal carrier on various bustling domestic routes, the impact was felt immediately and significantly.
Ticket prices on other airlines soared as anxious passengers rushed to secure any available seats out of the city.
The underlying issue stems from a significant staff shortage that has affected the airline following the introduction of stricter duty-time regulations for pilots and cabin crew.
Since these safety measures were put into place, IndiGo has struggled to allocate enough personnel to manage its scheduled flights, resulting in ongoing cancellations across its network.
In just the last five days, over 2,000 flights have reportedly been grounded across the nation, impacting not only domestic routes but also certain international flights.
At Chennai airport, tensions escalated as frustrated passengers confronted airline representatives regarding the abrupt cancellations, delayed notifications, and the lack of clear communication.
Many passengers voiced their discontent, claiming they received information only after arriving at the terminal, while others were left waiting for hours to confirm refunds or alternate arrangements.
Families travelling with young children and elderly individuals were particularly hard hit. The situation gained national attention after being brought up in Parliament, prompting a response from the Union government.
As per official sources, the Centre has provided a temporary relaxation of duty-time restrictions for airline crews to help stabilize operations.
The government has promised that flight schedules should begin to normalize within the next 24 hours, with complete restoration expected in three days.
Despite these reassurances, uncertainty continues to loom over passengers in Chennai as cancellations extend into a sixth consecutive day.
Travel agents report a spike in emergency bookings, cancellations, and refund requests, highlighting the extent of disruption caused by this prolonged aviation crisis.
Point of View
It's crucial to understand the broader implications of the ongoing IndiGo crisis. The disruptions have not only inconvenienced countless passengers but have also raised questions about airline management and regulatory compliance. The government's involvement highlights the need for accountability and solutions in the aviation sector, ensuring that such issues do not reoccur in the future.
NationPress
07/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were so many IndiGo flights cancelled?
The cancellations are primarily due to a severe staff shortage resulting from stricter duty-time regulations for pilots and cabin crew.
How long is the disruption expected to last?
The government has assured that flight schedules should start normalizing within the next 24 hours, with full restoration anticipated within three days.
What are the implications for passengers?
Passengers are experiencing significant inconvenience, with many left stranded and scrambling for last-minute alternatives and refunds.
Has the government intervened in the crisis?
Yes, the government has temporarily relaxed duty-time restrictions for airline crew in an effort to stabilize operations.
What should passengers do if their flight is cancelled?
Affected passengers should contact their airline for alternative arrangements and to inquire about refunds.
