IndiGo Faces CCI Probe Over Alleged Exploitative Pricing After Mass Cancellations

December 23, 2025 at 04:05 AM•3 min read

[IndiGo](https://www.goindigo.in) is under a [CCI](https://www.cci.gov.in) probe for alleged abuse of dominance and exploitative pricing following over

Key Points

14,200+ flights were cancelled by IndiGo in early December, leading to a major operational crisis and passenger inconvenience.
2The CCI probe focuses on 'exploitative pricing' under Section 4 of the Competition Act, investigating if IndiGo abused its dominant market position by raising fares after cancellations.
3The flight disruptions were caused by IndiGo's misplanning in implementing stricter DGCA Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms, which reduced available pilot hours.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has sought information from IndiGo Airlines. This action is part of an ongoing probe into alleged abuse of dominance. The inquiry was triggered by complaints of exploitative pricing following widespread flight disruptions.

IndiGo is India’s largest carrier, holding over 60% of the domestic market share. This dominant position makes its pricing practices a key focus for the antitrust regulator. The probe centers on whether the airline unfairly raised fares after reducing supply.

Core Allegations and Legal Framework

The investigation focuses on exploitative conduct under Competition Act Section 4. This section prohibits a dominant firm from misusing its market power. Abuse can involve imposing unfair or excessive prices on consumers.

A consumer complaint cited a personal experience of a steep fare hike. The replacement ticket cost nearly two-and-a-half times the original price. While one incident is the trigger, the CCI will assess the broader consumer inconvenience and market impact.

The Role of Supply Restriction

Sources indicate the CCI is examining the link between supply restriction and price increases. If the airline restricted supply and then raised prices, it could violate Section 4. This suggests a focus on the airline fare surge during the crisis period.

Background to Mass Flight Cancellations

The probe follows a major operational crisis for IndiGo in December 2025. The airline cancelled over 4,200 flights between December 1 and 9. This disruption stranded thousands of passengers nationwide.

The root cause was a pilot and crew shortage. This shortage resulted from the airline’s struggle to implement new DGCA FDTL norms. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had enforced stricter Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules. These rules require longer rest periods and reduced night flying hours for pilots.

4,200+ flights were cancelled by IndiGo in the first nine days of December.
The cancellations were linked to new DGCA rules on pilot duty roster management.
The CCI probe is separate from the DGCA's safety inquiry.

Industry Impact and Next Steps

This case is a crucial test for Indian commercial aviation news and competition law. It highlights the risk of a dominant player exploiting market conditions. The investigation will determine the boundary between dynamic pricing and anti-competitive behavior.

The CCI will conduct a preliminary assessment of the information received. If prima facie evidence of a violation is found, a detailed investigation will follow. Penalties for abusing dominance can include fines up to 10% of the company's average turnover.

For passengers, the outcome could set a precedent for consumer protection during operational meltdowns. It underscores the need for airlines to maintain operational resilience. The broader airline news community is watching this regulatory action closely. It impacts how carriers manage capacity and pricing during supply shocks.