In response to the recent mass cancellations of IndiGo flights, which left thousands of passengers stranded, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken action by suspending four flight operations inspectors (FIOs). These inspectors are responsible for overseeing critical aspects of airline operations, including pilot training, airline safety, and operational compliance.

The suspension of the FIOs comes as IndiGo's CEO, Pieter Elbers, is expected to meet with the aviation regulator today. He has been summoned to submit a report explaining the mass flight cancellations that began on December 2nd.

The disruptions experienced by IndiGo passengers have been attributed to the airline's failure to properly implement the second phase of Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL), which came into effect in November. The government has also criticized IndiGo's "mismanagement" and handling of its crew roster as contributing factors to the widespread cancellations. Last week, the impact was most severe, with over 1,600 flights cancelled in a single day.

Flight Operations Inspectors are senior officials within the DGCA who play a vital role in regulatory and safety oversight. They are often deployed to monitor airline operations and ensure compliance with safety standards. The DGCA's decision to suspend these inspectors underscores the seriousness with which the regulator is treating the IndiGo flight cancellation crisis. The regulatory body is responsible for overseeing the safety and operational compliance of airlines within India.