IndiGo Flight Cancellations Amid Crew Shortage

IndiGo, India's largest airline, is facing significant operational disruptions, including over 1,200 flight cancellations in November, primarily due to an acute shortage of pilots and cabin crew. This shortage stems from the implementation of stricter Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms by the India — Directorate General of Civil Aviation (India), following directives from the India — Delhi High Court. These new rules mandate increased rest periods and limit flying hours, which IndiGo has struggled to incorporate into its extensive network. The disruptions have led to widespread delays and cancellations across major Indian airports like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The India — Directorate General of Civil Aviation (India) has launched an investigation into IndiGo's operational issues and has requested a detailed explanation and mitigation plan. IndiGo has acknowledged the disruptions, citing a combination of factors including technical glitches, winter schedule adjustments, adverse weather, increased aviation system congestion, and the new FDTL norms. The airline has initiated calibrated schedule adjustments to stabilize operations and restore punctuality.