Delhi High Court Demands Answers for IndiGo Flight Crisis: Calls for Passenger Compensation and Governance Accountability

The Delhi High Court questioned the central government on IndiGo flight cancellations, highlighting passenger distress and economic impact. The court pressed for action against non-compliance with Flight Duty Time Limitation rules. A report is expected by January. Criticism for loopholes in oversight and surge pricing was also raised.

The Delhi High Court has expressed severe concerns over the crisis caused by IndiGo flight cancellations, questioning the central government's lack of timely intervention. The situation has left thousands of passengers stranded, with other airlines exploiting the crisis to hike prices exorbitantly.

During a hearing led by Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, the bench demanded answers from both the government and IndiGo, emphasizing the need for compensation for affected passengers and accountability for disruptions in compliance with Flight Duty Time Limitation regulations. The court also criticized the economic repercussions and inconvenience caused to travelers.

The authorities informed the court of existing statutory mechanisms and have issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo. Despite this, the court pressed for a thorough investigation and report by January, as well as a resolution to prevent future crises. The ongoing inquiry will also address the impact of other airlines' surge pricing practices during the disruptions.

(With inputs from agencies.)