Mumbai: Stranded passengers at the IndiGo counter after several flights were cancelled at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, in Mumbai, Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. (PTI Photo)(PTI12_05_2025_000021B)
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CNBC TV1806-12-2025, 10:13

IndiGo's Flight Chaos: Pilot Shortage, FDTL Rules Fuel 1000+ Cancellations

  • IndiGo experienced a rapid wave of flight cancellations, exceeding 1,000, due to operational challenges and pilot staffing issues.
  • New Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) rules, requiring more pilot rest, are a primary cause for the widespread disruptions.
  • IndiGo's high-frequency flight model exacerbated the impact of pilot shortages, leading to an "exponential cascade" of cancellations.
  • December 4th marked the worst single-day disruption with over 550 cancellations, severely impacting major airports like Delhi.
  • The airline is undertaking an operational reset and faces long-term challenges in staffing and rebuilding passenger trust.

Why It Matters: IndiGo's flight chaos reveals how pilot shortages and new rules impact your travel plans.

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