DGCA Issues SCN to IndiGo Over Large-Scale Flight Disruptions, Passenger Hardship [READ NOTICE]

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a stern show cause notice to IndiGo Airlines after widespread disruptions across the carrier’s scheduled operations caused severe inconvenience, delays, and distress to passengers.

According to the notice, the aviation regulator has observed sustained operational breakdowns, including mass flight delays, cancellations, and inadequate communication to affected travellers. The DGCA states that the primary cause of the disruptions appears to be IndiGo’s failure to implement sufficient operational arrangements required under the revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms.

The regulator has highlighted “significant lapses in planning, oversight and resource management” and alleged prima facie non-compliance with Rule 42A of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, as well as provisions of Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) Section 7 pertaining to duty hours, flight time limitations, and mandatory rest periods for crew.

The notice further states that IndiGo failed to provide timely and adequate facilities to passengers as mandated under CAR Section 3, Part IV, including obligations relating to denied boarding, long delays, and flight cancellations. The DGCA notes that travellers were left without satisfactory alternatives, assistance, or compensation, despite regulatory requirements.

The communication specifically holds the airline’s CEO accountable for failure to ensure “effective management” and timely operational arrangements, reiterating that the carrier is responsible for safeguarding passenger rights and ensuring reliability of services.

IndiGo has been directed to respond within 24 hours, explaining why enforcement action should not be initiated against it under aviation safety and passenger protection norms. The regulator warned that failure to respond within the stipulated time will result in the proceedings being concluded ex parte.

The directive has been issued with approval of the competent authority, underscoring the seriousness with which the government views systemic operational failures affecting one of India’s largest airline operators.

Further action will depend on IndiGo’s response and the regulator’s assessment of compliance readiness, including passenger redressal mechanisms and adherence to FDTL guidelines.

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