IndiGo Flight Cancellations Cause Massive Passenger Losses: Know Your Rights

New Delhi: Millions of passengers across India have been severely impacted due to widespread cancellations of IndiGo flights. Ticket prices skyrocketed, airports became overcrowded, and crucial journeys were disrupted, leaving travelers frustrated and stranded.

New DGCA Rules Trigger the Crisis

The recent travel chaos is linked to new regulations issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) earlier this year. These rules, aimed at regulating pilots’ duty hours, were implemented in two phases – July and November 2025. While the first phase had minimal impact, the November update caused a major disruption, particularly affecting IndiGo flights.

What the New Rules Specify

Under the revised Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) rules, pilots’ weekly rest period has been extended from 36 hours to 48 hours. Additionally, the number of late-night landings per pilot has been reduced from six to two. These changes have forced IndiGo to cancel multiple flights, resulting in significant passenger inconvenience.

Passengers’ Rights and Airline Responsibilities

Legal experts emphasize that airlines are responsible for minimizing passenger inconvenience. Retired Delhi High Court Justice R.S. Sodhi notes that airlines should have proactively prepared for such operational changes to avoid mass cancellations.

While the situation has slightly improved, disruptions continue. On Sunday alone, over 600 IndiGo flights were cancelled, leaving passengers scrambling for alternatives. Travelers are advised to know their legal rights and seek compensation where applicable.