Centre Orders High-Level Probe Into IndiGo Crisis; Expects Fix Within 72 Hours

The Central government has ordered a high-level inquiry into the widespread disruption of IndiGo flights that left thousands of passengers stranded at airports across the country on Friday.

The move comes after days of cancellations and delays that have caused significant inconvenience to travellers, prompting urgent intervention from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, in a statement issued through the Press Information Bureau (PIB), confirmed that the government has directed a formal investigation into the causes of the disruption.

The inquiry will examine what went wrong within IndiGo's operations, determine accountability, and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The minister emphasised that immediate steps were being taken to stabilise flight operations.

One of the key measures announced was the suspension of Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) orders issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). "Without compromising on air safety, this decision has been taken solely in the interest of passengers, especially senior citizens, students, patients, and others who rely on timely air travel for essential needs," Naidu said.

Authorities expect flight schedules to begin stabilising within 24 hours, with complete restoration of services anticipated within three days. To minimise passenger inconvenience during this period, airlines have been instructed to provide regular and accurate updates through enhanced online information systems. This will allow passengers to monitor real-time flight status from their homes.

In cases of cancellations, airlines must issue full refunds automatically, without requiring passengers to make requests. For those stranded due to prolonged delays, hotel accommodation will be arranged directly by the airlines. Special priority is being given to senior citizens and differently abled passengers, who will be provided lounge access and additional assistance to ensure comfort. Refreshments and essential services are also being made available to all travellers affected by delays.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has also established a 24×7 control room, with dedicated helpline numbers (011-24610843, 011-24693963, 096503-91859), to monitor the situation in real time. The control room will coordinate corrective action, ensure effective communication between stakeholders, and provide immediate resolution of issues as they arise.

Reiterating the government's commitment, Minister Naidu said the Centre is fully aware of the difficulties faced by air passengers and remains in continuous consultation with airlines and regulators. "Every necessary measure, including regulatory relaxations as permitted by DGCA, is being taken to stabilise airline operations and alleviate public inconvenience at the earliest possible time," he assured.

The high-level inquiry is expected to provide clarity on the operational lapses at IndiGo, determine accountability, and lay down recommendations to strengthen airline resilience. The government has stressed that the ultimate goal is to ensure passengers do not face such hardships again and that India's aviation sector remains reliable, safe, and responsive to public needs.