Delhi, 8 December (H.S.): Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Monday said the Centre is taking the ongoing IndiGo flight disruption crisis “very seriously” and has initiated an inquiry into the matter. His statement comes a week after massive cancellations by India’s largest airline left thousands of passengers stranded at airports nationwide.

On Monday alone, IndiGo — controlled by promoter Rahul Bhatia — cancelled 562 flights across six metro airports, including 150 cancellations from Bengaluru airport, according to PTI. The disruptions, triggered by regulatory changes, have affected lakhs of passengers, though the airline’s on-time performance reportedly improved to 79.9% a day prior.

“We are not taking this lightly. We are conducting an inquiry and will take very strict action. We will set an example for all airlines,” Naidu said. He added that IndiGo was responsible for managing crew schedules and rosters as part of its daily operations. “From the ministry, we have made it clear that airlines must follow the rules.”

FDTL Norms at the Centre of Crisis

The Minister confirmed that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been in continuous consultation with airlines over the implementation of updated Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms introduced in January 2024.

The revised FDTL regulations mandate:

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Longer weekly rest for pilots: increased to 48 hours, from the earlier 36 hours.

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Stricter night-time definitions: “Night” is now classified as 12 a.m. to 6 a.m.

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Reduction in night landings: from six to two, with tighter checks on consecutive night duties.

These reforms aim to reduce pilot fatigue and enhance flight safety.

Naidu said airlines operating heavily in the Northeast had sought variations under the new rules. “Wherever there was no compromise on safety, after thorough consultation and safety risk assessment, necessary variations and exemptions were provided,” he noted.

IndiGo Had One Month to Prepare, Says Minister.

The Aviation Minister further stated that the new FDTL rules had been implemented from December 3, giving airlines, including IndiGo, an entire month to adjust their operations.

“Even though the crisis is being attributed to FDTL, IndiGo was supposed to manage the crew and roster through its day-to-day operations,” he said. “We observed operations for one full month and even held a dedicated meeting with IndiGo on FDTL. We gave clarifications.”

The government has assured passengers that appropriate measures will be taken to ensure smooth operations and prevent such disruptions in the future.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar