IndiGo Crisis: Aviation Minister Says “Maximum Accountability on IndiGo Itself” – DGCA Probe On, Refunds by Dec 7 8PM
New Delhi, December 6, 2025 – Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has put IndiGo firmly in the dock, calling the ongoing flight chaos “very surprising and alarming” for India’s largest airline. In a strong statement, he said the government has placed **“maximum accountability on IndiGo itself”** because the crisis originated entirely from the airline’s poor planning around new pilot rest rules (FDTL).
Over **1,500 flights cancelled in just four days**, OTP crashing below 20%, passengers sleeping on airport floors – the minister confirmed a high-level committee is probing exactly “who did it wrong” and strict action will follow. Meanwhile, passengers have been given a clear deadline and relief measures.
• “This is not a sudden hammer – airlines had ample time.”
• “Only one airline failed to plan – full accountability on IndiGo.”
• “Committee formed – whoever is responsible will pay.”
Why Only IndiGo Collapsed – The Real Reason
The trigger? Phase 2 of DGCA’s new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules from November 1, 2025:
- Weekly rest up from 36 → 48 hours
- Night duties capped at 2 consecutive days
- “Night” now starts 8 PM instead of midnight
Every airline had 18 months notice. Air India, Vistara, Akasa adjusted smoothly. IndiGo – with the highest night flights and leanest crew model – miscalculated pilot requirements by hundreds. Result? Domino collapse.
Minister: “Other airlines abided by guidelines. This issue cropped up with only one airline.”
Passenger Relief Orders – Deadline Dec 7, 8 PM
✅ Baggage Delivery: Within 48 hours to home/address
✅ Real-Time Updates: Tracking + compensation as per rules
✅ Fare Cap: No predatory pricing on alternate flights
Non-compliance? Immediate regulatory action – fines, grounding threats possible.
Latest Ground Reality – Slow Recovery
Dec 6 evening updates:
- Cancellations down to ~400 (from 1000+ yesterday)
- OTP climbing – Delhi 55%, Mumbai 62%
- Still long queues, missing baggage reports
- Delhi Airport: “Operations steadily resuming”
Full normalcy? CEO says Dec 10-15. With DGCA’s temporary relaxation till Dec 31, recovery expected faster.
What Passengers Must Do Right Now
- Check Status: IndiGo app/website every hour
- Don’t Go to Airport: If cancelled – notification will come
- Refund Pending? Screenshot proof → file on AirSewa.gov.in
- Missing Baggage? Track on IndiGo site → raise ticket
- Christmas Travel? Rebook on Air India/Vistara/Akasa (better OTP)
Final Word: Accountability Era Begins
For the first time, a minister has openly said: “Whoever was responsible will pay.” IndiGo built its empire on reliability – this crisis is a wake-up call. DGCA probe, refund deadline, baggage mandate – government is watching closely.
Passengers suffered enough. Time for IndiGo to deliver – not just promises, but planes in the sky.
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