Govt Steps In as IndiGo Disruptions Hit Passengers
FDTL orders put in abeyance; flight schedules expected to stabilise within 24 hours
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 5th Dec: Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu on Friday announced a series of urgent measures to address the widespread disruption in flight schedules, particularly those involving IndiGo Airlines. The Ministry has placed the DGCA’s Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) orders in abeyance with immediate effect, stating that the decision—taken without compromising air safety—was necessary to protect passengers who depend on timely travel, including senior citizens, students and patients.
The Minister said multiple operational directives have been issued to ensure that airline services normalise quickly. Based on immediate compliance from airlines, flight schedules are expected to stabilise by tomorrow, with complete restoration anticipated within three days.
Airlines have been instructed to provide accurate, real-time flight updates through improved online systems. Full refunds for cancelled flights will be processed automatically, without requiring any request from passengers. Those stranded due to extended delays will be provided hotel accommodation arranged directly by the airlines.
Special attention has been directed toward senior citizens and differently abled travellers, who will receive lounge access and dedicated assistance. Refreshments and essential services will also be made available for all passengers affected by delays.
To coordinate corrective actions, the Ministry has activated a 24×7 control room (011-24610843, 011-24693963, 096503-91859), which is monitoring the situation in real time.
The Government has ordered a high-level inquiry into the disruptions. The probe will examine operational failures within IndiGo, identify accountability, and recommend steps to prevent future breakdowns.
Reassuring passengers, the Minister said the Central Government is fully alert to the difficulties being faced and remains in constant touch with airlines and stakeholders. “Every necessary measure is being taken to stabilise airline operations and alleviate public inconvenience,” he said, adding that passenger care, safety and convenience remain the government’s highest priority.
