IndiGo Faces 300+ Flight Cancellations Amid Staffing and Technical Glitches

IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, is grappling with a surge in flight cancellations that has disrupted travel for thousands of passengers. Since Tuesday, more than 300 flights have been scrapped nationwide, with the busiest hubs in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad feeling the impact.

The carrier cites a mix of technical problems, adverse weather, and changes to crew scheduling under new rules as contributors to the disruption.

With a network that connects major metropolitan cities and smaller destinations, IndiGo has long been known for on-time performance, though recent weeks have tested that reputation.

Operational response and numbers

To stabilise operations, the airline said it would implement calibrated adjustments to its timetable through Friday.

On Thursday morning, local outlets counted: Delhi 33 cancellations, Mumbai 85, Bengaluru 73.

Videos of frustrated travellers circulated on social media, and many passengers voiced complaints on X, formerly known as Twitter. The airline’s standard reply is that operations depend on several factors beyond their control that may affect the schedule.

Regulator and crew-rule context

India’s aviation regulator is reviewing the disruptions and has asked IndiGo to explain the causes of the delays and cancellations.

Since November 1, reports say the disruptions coincide with pilot and crew shortages linked to the new Flight Duty Time Limit rules, which cap flight hours and require more rest. The Federation of Indian Pilots counters that the cancellations cannot be fully attributed to these rules, noting that other airlines have remained largely unaffected.

Industry impact and public response

INLIBER has sought comment from IndiGo. The crisis challenges the carrier’s reputation as a punctual operator, with observers noting a dip in performance in recent months.

A LocalCircles survey found that 54% of IndiGo passengers reported timeliness issues over the past year.

For updates, follow INLIBER News India on Instagram, YouTube, X and Facebook.

Expert comment

Industry analysts say the disruptions illustrate the fragility of flight schedules when technical problems, weather variances, and staffing rules intersect. They urge improved contingency planning and clearer passenger communication as a priority.

Summary

IndiGo is dealing with hundreds of cancellations driven by a mix of technical faults, weather, and new crew regulations. Regulators are seeking explanations while the airline works to stabilise services. Passenger frustration is rising, and recent surveys show many travelers report delays.

Key insight: Operational disruptions can escalate quickly when tech issues, weather, and staffing rules collide, underscoring the need for robust contingency planning. BBC News