India is set to take decisive measures against IndiGo after the airline canceled over 2,000 flights this month, according to the civil aviation minister. The aim is to “set an example” for other airlines breaching regulations.
“We are conducting an investigation and will impose very strict sanctions… we will serve as a warning to all other airlines,” Minister Ram Mohan Naidu informed lawmakers. IndiGo has yet to respond to Naidu’s statements, Reuters noted.
The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation authority, has issued notices to IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers and COO Isidre Porqueras, cautioning of potential penalties and suspensions, as per documents obtained by Reuters on Saturday.
Flight Schedule Reduction
After reviewing IndiGo’s 2025 winter schedule, the DGCA has mandated a 5% reduction in flights. The directive follows IndiGo’s response to a show cause notice issued last Friday.
“IndiGo has failed to efficiently manage its flight schedules. Consequently, a 5% reduction in flights across all sectors is required. IndiGo must submit a revised schedule by 5 PM on December 10,” stated the DGCA.
Due to the widespread disruptions at airports caused by IndiGo’s operational issues, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed senior officials to visit major airports like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and others to assess the situation thoroughly, as reported by ANI.
Processing Refunds
Flight disruptions have persisted for the eighth consecutive day, with Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport reporting 14 arrivals and 17 departures canceled since Tuesday morning.
IndiGo assured passengers that refunds for canceled flights between December 3 and 15, 2025, are being processed. “If your travel plans have changed due to these disruptions, we are offering a full waiver on change and cancellation fees for travel valid until December 15, 2025,” the airline stated.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, canceled flights due to crew shortages after failing to prepare for stricter pilot rest regulations, leaving tens of thousands of passengers stranded, affecting vacation plans and weddings, and causing increasing anger over lost luggage.
[Input from Reuters and ANI]
