IndiGo Chaos: Govt Relents on Pilot Rest Norms Amid Flight Cancellations

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India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has rolled back its revised pilot rest norms, citing 'ongoing operational disruptions' as IndiGo continues to struggle with mass flight cancellations. The crisis, which began on December 2, has affected over 1,000 flights across major cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, as well as smaller towns. The DGCA's initial move to enforce improved duty hours and leave policy for pilots, aimed at tackling fatigue and prioritizing safety, was met with resistance from IndiGo, which is the country's dominant airline. The regulator eventually relented, exempting requirements related to night duty and operations that encroach into night duty. The decision has sparked criticism from industry experts, who argue that the government has succumbed to airline pressure. Mark Martin, a sector expert, stated that the move will have global repercussions and backlash from pilots, pilot unions, and pressure groups. The crisis has left passengers stranded, with some experiencing delays of hours to retrieve their luggage after flights were cancelled. The peak travel season has also meant that cancellations have impacted weddings and other family gatherings. The DGCA has appealed to pilot associations to cooperate during this challenging period, emphasizing the need for coordination between pilots and airlines. However, the regulator has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the original Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms, which prioritize pilot safety and well-being. The crisis is expected to worsen as the country approaches the fog season and peak holiday period, with passenger volumes expected to rise sharply. The DGCA's decision to relax the norms has raised concerns about the safety of Indian skies, particularly in light of the recent AI 171 crash in Ahmedabad.