Shares of InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, experienced a decline of over 4% following an operational update detailing widespread flight cancellations and delays. The stock traded in the red as the airline grappled with disruptions stemming from the implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) for pilots and other operational challenges.
In response to the crisis, the IndiGo board has established a Crisis Management Group (CMG) to address the situation and restore normalcy to its operations. The CMG comprises Chairman Vikram Singh Mehta, board directors Gregg Saretsky, Mike Whitaker, Amitabh Kant, and CEO Pieter Elbers. The group is actively monitoring the situation and receiving constant updates from the management regarding the measures being taken to restore normal operations.
The recent disruptions have led to a significant number of flight cancellations, causing hardship and distress to passengers across the country. On Sunday, December 7, 2025, IndiGo cancelled 650 flights and aimed to operate 1,650 flights out of its usual 2,300 daily flights. Over the past few days, more than 1,000 flights have been cancelled, impacting major hubs such as Delhi and Mumbai.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken a firm stance on the matter, issuing show-cause notices to IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers and COO Isidro Porqueras, seeking explanations for the massive flight disruptions. The DGCA has granted Elbers an extension to respond to the notice but has warned of potential strict action if the airline fails to comply. The aviation regulator also said IndiGo did not make the necessary adjustments to its rosters, manpower and systems in time, resulting in widespread crew shortages and a cascading operational breakdown across its network of 138 destinations.
IndiGo has attributed the chaos to a combination of factors, including unforeseen operational challenges, minor technical glitches, winter schedule adjustments, congestion, and adverse weather. However, industry experts and regulators suggest that the primary cause of the disruptions is the implementation of the new FDTL rules, designed to prevent pilot fatigue. These rules mandate increased weekly rest for crew, longer night duty windows, a cap on night landings, and a cut in night flying hours, which has strained IndiGo's crew resources.
The airline has taken steps to mitigate the impact of the disruptions and restore stability to its network. IndiGo is working to strengthen crew planning and rostering, enhance coordination with air traffic control and airports, and improve turnaround and disruption-management processes. IndiGo expects its network to stabilize by December 10, 2025, and is working to restore customer support systems. IndiGo is prioritising passenger support while working to stabilise schedules and rebuild trust following days of widespread cancellations.
IndiGo has processed refunds worth ₹610 crore and has been asked to trace and deliver all baggage separated from passengers due to disruptions within 48 hours. The airline has also announced that it has restored over 95% of its network, operating to 135 out of 138 destinations.
Despite the challenges, IndiGo maintains a strong overall occupancy rate, ranging from 81% to 91% from January 2023 to October 2025. The airline has sought certain exemptions from specific FDTL requirements until February 10, 2026, to help normalise operations.
