Massive Flight Disruptions
IndiGo airlines faced considerable operational challenges, resulting in the cancellation of nearly 220 flights across major airports. The affected airports included
Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, which experienced significant disruptions. Passengers at these locations endured delays, denied boarding, and extended waiting periods. Mumbai airport saw over 40,000 passengers affected since December 1. At Ahmedabad airport, 10 departing flights were cancelled. The situation led to a crisis, with many passengers stranded and frustrated by the airline's performance, drawing criticism from various quarters and prompting urgent responses from authorities and legal bodies.
Government & Regulatory Actions
In response to the crisis, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) formed an oversight panel to monitor IndiGo's operations. This was complemented by immediate on-site inspections at 11 airports to assess the situation. The government also ordered IndiGo to curtail its operations by 10% to ease the disruptions, while the Delhi High Court took up a petition filed against the airline. Furthermore, the DGCA summoned IndiGo's chief for a hearing. Regular vigil was maintained on flight operations, as stated by the civil aviation minister, indicating a proactive approach to address the ongoing issues.
Passenger and Airport Impact
The flight cancellations caused significant hardship for thousands of passengers, with over 40,000 affected at Mumbai airport alone. Visuals from Guwahati airport showed passengers waiting amidst delays. Airports, including Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Bengaluru, were among the most affected. The Delhi High Court addressed the situation, taking up pleas and questioning the government's response. Additionally, there were reports of passengers being denied boarding and stranded at airports, highlighting the severity of the crisis. Airline officials were also instructed to provide comprehensive data on the disruptions to address the issues comprehensively.
Airline's Response and Measures
IndiGo has been taking steps to manage the crisis, with the chairman expressing a commitment to examine every aspect of the disruptions. The airline sent a revised schedule with reduced winter flights to the DGCA. Additionally, IndiGo stated that they are back to 90% of their operational capacity. A special oversight team has been established to monitor the airline's activities, and 2 DGCA panel officers are permanently stationed at IndiGo's Gurugram office. The airline’s actions include apologies, outlining the reasons for the disruptions and addressing claims surrounding them, aiming to restore confidence and manage passenger expectations.
Legal and Political Reactions
The Delhi High Court took a proactive stance, hearing urgent petitions and questioning the government about the crisis. Legal actions were initiated, with petitioners presenting their cases. Political figures, including KC Venugopal and Priyanka Chaturvedi, criticized the government's handling of the situation. Some members of parliament raised concerns about the impact of the flight disruptions. The court rapped the Centre over mass cancellations and fare surges. The legal and political responses reflect the broader scrutiny and concern surrounding the airline's operational failures and the resulting impact on passengers and the aviation sector.
