IndiGo Crisis: 8 Lakh Passengers Affected, DGCA Acts on Pilot Shortage

• IndiGo cancelled over 5,000 flights since December 2, affecting more than 7.75 lakh passengers due to an operational meltdown.
• The crisis stemmed from IndiGo underestimating manpower needs after new Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) norms increased pilot rest.
• Pilot unions claim the crisis was avoidable, accusing IndiGo of delayed hiring and poor planning despite knowing about stricter rest rules.
• The DGCA issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo's CEO and COO for operational failures and lack of passenger facilities.
• DGCA granted temporary relaxation of some FDTL norms until Feb 2026 to help stabilize IndiGo's operations, requiring strict reporting.

Why It Matters: IndiGo's crisis exposes India's aviation system's fragility and impact on travelers.