IndiGo Crisis: DGCA Freezes Crew Duty Rules Amid Flight Disruptions, High-Level Inquiry Ordered

Image Source: Internet

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has temporarily frozen the implementation of crew fatigue rules for IndiGo, citing the need to stabilize the national aviation network and restore normalcy in passenger services. The decision comes after the airline sought relief from the regulations, which it blamed for continuing flight cancellations that have stranded tens of thousands of passengers. The crisis, which has seen IndiGo cancel over 400 flights in the past four days, has underscored the fragility of the airline's business model, which relies heavily on cost optimization and minimal operational buffers. The airline, which commands 60% of India's domestic market, has been criticized for its low-cost strategies, which have left it short-handed in terms of crew. According to the DGCA, IndiGo has been exempted from certain rules on pilot duty hours at night, after a representation from the airline. The exemption, which will remain valid until February 10, has been granted to facilitate operational stabilization and ensure continuity of essential air services. A high-level inquiry has been ordered to examine what went wrong at IndiGo, determine accountability, and recommend measures to prevent similar disruptions in the future. The inquiry will also look into the airline's hiring practices, which have been criticized for being inadequate. The Airline Pilots Association of India has expressed concern over the selective dispensations granted to IndiGo, saying it undermines the spirit of the crew fatigue rules and compromises the safety of the flying public. The association has called for strict adherence to the rules and a 30-day roadmap for full compliance. The DGCA has stressed that the exemption is temporary and intended only to alleviate ongoing disruptions. The regulator has also warned that it reserves the right to withdraw the exemption at any time in the interest of flight safety. In the meantime, IndiGo has warned of the highest number of cancellations, maintaining that it is taking necessary steps to reboot its systems and schedules for progressive improvement. The airline has promised to restore full operations by February 10.