IndiGo Passengers Encounter Missing Luggage Issues at Delhi Airport Post Disruptions

IndiGo passengers at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport are grappling with a significant missing luggage crisis, weeks after the airline experienced widespread flight cancellations and delays. Travelers like Akash Chauhan and Umar Qazi have reported extensive difficulties retrieving their bags, with some luggage misplaced as early as December 6. The situation has caused considerable disruption, impacting personal travel plans and professional work due to essential items like laptops being stuck in transit.

Passengers have encountered unresponsive helpdesks, bureaucratic delays in identity verification, and prolonged baggage release procedures. Airport staff informed travelers that unclaimed luggage at Terminal 1 would be held only until 6 PM on December 11 before being shifted to Terminal 2. Many individuals, including Nikhil, whose luggage was left in Udaipur, reported non-functional helpline numbers and a lack of available staff for assistance, exacerbating their frustration.

The initial widespread operational disruptions faced by IndiGo, India's largest airline with nearly 65% domestic market share, stemmed from crew shortages. This was primarily attributed to the airline's insufficient preparation for the second phase of new crew rest and duty norms, which became effective on November 1. IndiGo had stated on December 8 that over 4,500 bags were delivered, with remaining deliveries expected within 36 hours. The airline later confirmed that nearly all stuck bags had been delivered, and operations, including on-time performance, had returned to normal levels.