IndiGo faces nationwide flight disruptions due to new crew rules and pilot shortages

IndiGo is currently grappling with a significant operational crisis, resulting in widespread flight delays and cancellations across its network in India. This disruption stems primarily from a combination of staff shortages and the implementation of new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) regulations. While some airport operations have reportedly stabilized, major hubs like Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru continue to experience considerable passenger inconvenience. The core of IndiGo's scheduling challenges lies in the revised FDTL rules, which impose stricter limits on the working hours for pilots and cabin crew. These new regulations necessitate a larger pool of personnel to maintain existing flight schedules, creating a pilot deployment issue for the airline. In response to the extensive disruptions, IndiGo's leadership has issued a public apology to affected passengers. The Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has intensified its oversight, summoning IndiGo's CEO for a second time and demanding a comprehensive report on the operational lapses. Passengers affected by cancellations are advised to check their flight status via IndiGo's website or app, with options for a full refund or rebooking at no additional cost. Refunds for online payments are typically processed within 5-7 business days.