Aviation Accountability: Minister Orders Inquiry Into IndiGo Crisis

Inside the announcement  
Over 4,500 IndiGo flights were cancelled in the past week, stranding passengers across major airports. The disruption stemmed from crew rostering problems linked to new Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) rules. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been monitoring the situation since November and has now ordered a high-level probe. The minister emphasized that while FDTL norms were properly implemented, IndiGo failed to manage its internal planning, leading to widespread chaos.  

Notable updates  
• More than 4,500 flights cancelled in one week, impacting thousands of passengers  
• Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu blames crew rostering and internal planning failures  
• DGCA ordered a high-level inquiry to determine accountability and corrective measures  
• Government promises strict enforcement of Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs) for passenger rights  
• Minister vows action to “set an example” for all airlines, signaling zero tolerance for mismanagement  
• Calls for greater competition in aviation sector to prevent monopolistic disruptions  

Major takeaway  
The IndiGo crisis has spotlighted vulnerabilities in airline operations and passenger rights. With the government promising strict action, the inquiry is expected to set a precedent for accountability, ensuring airlines prioritize operational discipline and consumer protection.  

Sources: Free Press Journal, India TV News, CNBCTV18, India Today, Indian Express, Times Now