IndiGo's Crisis: Behind the Scenes of Massive Flight Cancellations

IndiGo airline faced mass flight cancellations, including 60 from Bengaluru, due to new pilot duty norms and planning failures. The DGCA summoned CEO Pieter Elbers for a report on the disruptions. Despite internal issues and a reduced winter schedule, cancellations continue amid concerns over staffing strategies.

In a significant setback, IndiGo has cancelled 60 flights from Bengaluru Airport, amid continued scrutiny from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) following large-scale service disruptions. The cancellations are part of a larger issue related to framing and implementation of new pilot and crew duty norms.

IndiGo's CEO, Pieter Elbers, has been called by the DGCA to provide a comprehensive report on the operational disruptions. Meanwhile, IndiGo plans to operate over 1,950 flights on Thursday, although this comes after the government reduced its winter schedule flights by 10% to minimize cancellations.

IndiGo Chairman Vikram Mehta attributed the chaos to unforeseen events, including weather disruption and increased congestion. The DGCA has increased oversight by staffing IndiGo's headquarters with personnel to monitor the ongoing crisis and suggest solutions. Despite internal planning failures, the issues have not significantly impacted other airlines.

(With inputs from agencies.)