IndiGo faces govt heat as crew shortage sparks nationwide chaos; minister warns of strict action
Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu blames large-scale cancellations and widespread inconvenience to IndiGo’s “internal mismanagement”
PTC Web Desk: As IndiGo struggles to resume normal operations following days of disruption caused by an acute crew shortage, Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu has issued a stern warning to the airline, signalling that the government is prepared to take strong action to prevent such incidents in the future.
Addressing the Rajya Sabha on Monday, Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu said the large-scale cancellations and widespread inconvenience to passengers stemmed from IndiGo’s “internal mismanagement” when the revised flight safety regulations came into effect. The updated norms, which focus on reducing pilot fatigue, require airlines to increase crew rest hours and expand staffing.
“We prioritise the well-being of pilots, crew and passengers. Every airline was informed well in advance about the new safety rules. IndiGo was responsible for ensuring proper crew planning and rostering. Passengers endured severe hardships, and we are treating the issue with utmost seriousness. Any non-compliance will invite strict measures. The government will set a precedent through this case,” the minister told the Upper House. He confirmed that a detailed inquiry has already been initiated.
Naidu also reiterated the Centre’s aim to strengthen the aviation ecosystem by encouraging more competition, saying India has the potential to support at least five major carriers. His statement, however, did not satisfy opposition lawmakers, who staged a walkout in protest.
The minister’s remarks come after several days of frustration for travellers, with hundreds of IndiGo flights cancelled nationwide. The sudden disruption derailed holiday plans, weddings and business schedules, leaving thousands stranded.
The turbulence was triggered by the rollout of new pilot fatigue management rules, introduced nearly two years ago but implemented recently. IndiGo, which operates nearly 2,200 flights a day and relies heavily on tight scheduling and faster aircraft turnaround times, found itself short of the required number of pilots and crew, resulting in mass cancellations.
As the crisis deepened, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) stepped in and temporarily eased the modified safety guidelines to stabilise operations. The investigations are, however, underway.