IndiGo to compensate passengers over ₹500 crore for mass flight cancellations due to pilot roster issues
IndiGo is expected to pay more over INR 500 crore in total compensation to passengers affected by large-scale flight cancellations that took place earlier this month.
The airline cancelled around 4,500 flights over the past week after problems in pilot roster planning, which left a large number of aircraft grounded and caused major disruption to travel plans. Tens of thousands of passengers were stranded at airports across the country.
Following the disruptions, India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), directed IndiGo to cut 10% of its domestic winter flight schedule to stabilise operations.
In a post on social media platform X, IndiGo said it is currently identifying flights on which passengers were most severely affected, particularly those who were stranded at airports on December 3, 4 and 5.
The airline said it will compensate passengers whose flights were cancelled within 24 hours of departure, and passengers who were severely stranded at certain airports during the disruption period. IndiGo did not provide a per-passenger compensation amount but said the total payout is expected to exceed INR 500 crore.
IndiGo has faced strong criticism for failing to adequately plan for new pilot duty and rest rules, which were introduced to reduce fatigue and improve flight safety. These rules limited the number of hours pilots can fly and required longer rest periods, significantly affecting airline schedules.
Due to the lack of preparedness, several aircraft remained grounded, leading to widespread cancellations and delays.
As a result of the reduced flight schedule, IndiGo also lowered its capacity and passenger revenue forecast for the third quarter. The airline said the reduction in flights during the busy winter season would impact earnings in the short term.
The cancellations and compensation payouts mark one of the most serious operational disruptions IndiGo has faced in recent years, highlighting the challenges airlines face in balancing safety regulations, crew availability, and operational planning.
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