Kolkata, December 8, 2025 - West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticized the Central government and IndiGo airlines amid the ongoing flight cancellations that have disrupted travel across India. Describing the situation as a "disaster," Banerjee voiced her concerns for the thousands of passengers stranded at airports, calling their experience "mentally tortured".
Banerjee's sharp remarks come as IndiGo grapples with its seventh consecutive day of widespread flight cancellations and delays. The crisis has affected major airports, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Chennai, leaving countless travelers stranded and frustrated. On Monday alone, reports indicate that over 250 IndiGo flights were canceled from Delhi and Bengaluru. Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport reported 127 cancellations.
"What is the alternative for the public? It is most unfortunate that the maximum number of flights have stopped," Banerjee stated. She urged the Central government to intervene immediately and devise a plan to resolve the crisis. Accusing the BJP-led government of neglecting the needs of the country and its people, Banerjee alleged that their focus remains solely on "how to capture institutions".
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has extended the deadline for IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers and COO Isidro Porqueras to respond to a show-cause notice regarding "significant lapses in planning, oversight, and resource management". Civil Aviation Minister KR Mohan Naidu has also ordered an inquiry into IndiGo's operational failures, vowing to set an example for the entire aviation sector. He clarified that the disruptions stemmed from an "operational issue created by the airline" and not a regulatory lapse.
The crisis stems from the implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms, which mandate increased rest periods for pilots. While airlines sought a gradual implementation, the DGCA enforced the norms following directives from the Delhi High Court. IndiGo received some temporary relaxations until February 10.
The ongoing disruptions have also triggered legal action. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Delhi High Court, seeking urgent judicial intervention and demanding immediate assistance, refunds, and support for stranded passengers. The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear the matter on December 10, 2025. The Supreme Court declined to hear a plea seeking judicial intervention, stating that the government has already taken cognizance of the matter.
Adding to the woes, the share value of InterGlobe Aviation Limited, IndiGo's parent company, has plummeted, with shares dropping sharply.
Amid the chaos, Delhi Airport has issued an advisory, urging passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport. IndiGo has stated they expect normal operations by December 10.
