Fines, Flight Cuts, Passengers' Class Action: What IndiGo Could Face After Its Operations Meltdown

IndiGo airline is facing significant repercussions following a week of mass flight cancellations and delays, triggered by the implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) rules. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is investigating the disruptions and considering penalties, which could include fines up to ₹1 crore, flight restrictions, suspension of slots, or even cancellation of IndiGo’s Air Operator Certificate. Legal experts suggest the DGCA has broad authority to enforce compliance, including potential imprisonment for violations.

The crisis stemmed from IndiGo’s difficulties adapting to the new FDTL rules, which aim to improve pilot fatigue management by limiting duty hours and increasing rest periods. The airline’s on-time performance plummeted to as low as 3.7% on December 5th, with over 1,000 flights cancelled daily. While IndiGo initially blamed technology glitches, weather, and congestion, the FDTL rules emerged as the primary factor. The government rolled back the FDTL rules and established a committee to investigate the causes of the disruption.

Passengers, stranded and inconvenienced by the cancellations, are considering a class action lawsuit under the Consumer Protection Act, seeking compensation for service deficiencies. Surveys indicate strong support for legal action, and consumer courts have previously awarded compensation for significant flight delays. The situation has also raised questions about IndiGo’s rostering practices and potential manipulation to pressure regulators, prompting calls for a thorough investigation and enforcement of safety regulations.

(Source：Outlook Business)