New Delhi: India’s largest airline IndiGo is facing serious scrutiny after aviation regulator DGCA issued a show cause notice to the company’s chief executive Pieter Elbers following major flight disruptions across the country. The regulator has asked him to respond by tonight after accusing the airline of failing to follow mandatory scheduling and crew duty rules.
The notice was issued after thousands of passengers were affected by widespread cancellations and delays this week. According to DGCA, IndiGo did not properly plan pilot and cabin crew schedules under the updated duty time rules, leading to staff shortages and operational collapse across multiple airports.
Officials also said that recent cost cutting measures such as slowing down pilot recruitment worsened the situation. During a meeting with government authorities, the IndiGo CEO admitted the airline made a mistake and assured steps will be taken to correct the issue.
Reports suggest that more than one thousand flights were canceled in a single day which is believed to be one of the largest disruptions by an Indian airline in recent years. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has also requested a detailed explanation and may consider further action depending on IndiGo’s response.
Passengers continue to express frustration at airports as many flights remain delayed or rescheduled. The airline has not yet released a public detailed statement on the cause of the disruption.
DGCA said it will review IndiGo’s reply before deciding next steps. The outcome could include penalties or mandatory corrective measures. The situation raises concern as IndiGo plays a major role in India’s domestic air travel network.
More updates are expected once the airline submits its formal response to the regulator.