IndiGo Chairman acknowledged that rebuilding passenger trust will not be easy after last week’s operational chaos, calling it a “blemish” on the airline’s record. Meanwhile, the DGCA has ordered surprise inspections at 11 airports, ensuring compliance with new pilot duty and rest rules, and addressing widespread cancellations and delays.
India’s largest airline, IndiGo, continues to face scrutiny after nine consecutive days of flight disruptions. Chairman Vikram Singh Mehta admitted that the events were a “blemish” on the carrier’s reputation, stressing that passenger trust will take time to rebuild. He clarified that IndiGo did not attempt to bypass the new pilot duty and rest regulations, which were recently enforced by the aviation regulator.
In response to mounting passenger complaints, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed inspection teams to conduct on-spot checks at arrival airports, in addition to scheduled inspections. The regulator has issued a 13-point checklist to assess operational readiness, safety compliance, and crew management.
The crisis, triggered by stricter enforcement of Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL), has led to thousands of cancellations, stranding passengers nationwide during peak travel season.
Key Highlights / Major Takeaways
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IndiGo Chairman: Admits trust rebuilding will be difficult; calls disruptions a “blemish.”
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Pilot Rules: Airline insists it did not bypass new duty/rest norms.
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DGCA Action: Surprise inspections at 11 airports with a 13-point compliance checklist.
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Passenger Impact: Nine days of cancellations and delays across major hubs.
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Regulatory Oversight: Focus on safety, crew fatigue, and operational discipline.
Sources: Livemint , Mathrubhumi , India TV News