IndiGo cancels 1,000 flights across India

On Friday, IndiGo, India's leading domestic airline, canceled more than 1,000 flights due to difficulties in meeting new pilot rest regulations. The disruptions began earlier in the week, with flight cancellations announced on Tuesday due to insufficient crew availability.

All departures from New Delhi Airport, the nation's busiest airport, were canceled on Friday. IndiGo operates around 2,300 flights daily and served 118 million passengers last year. The airline has stated that it expects operations to stabilize by February 10.

CEO Pieter Elbers explained in a video message that a "reboot" of scheduling systems and operations triggered the widespread cancellations. Videos posted by passengers showed protests with chants of "IndiGo shame! Shame, shame!" The airline has issued repeated apologies, noting that weather conditions and technical faults also contributed to the disruptions.

The new pilot rest requirements, which were announced two years ago and enforced last month, were a key factor. The Indian Pilots Association criticized IndiGo, claiming that other carriers have managed their staffing without significant issues. The union described the airline's approach as "a direct consequence of IndiGo's prolonged and unorthodox lean manpower strategy."

In response, India's aviation authority temporarily relaxed one of the pilot rest rules to ease operational strain. Federation of Indian Pilots President C.S. Randhawa emphasized that "safety cannot be compromised for commercial interests." The government also reassured the public that safety remains the top priority.

The authorities have directed IndiGo to provide a detailed plan covering crew hiring, training, schedule adjustments, safety assessments, and mitigation measures. The airline will waive all fees for cancellations and rebookings through December 15 and is arranging accommodations and meals for affected travelers.

Author: Natalie Monroe