Safety Concerns Arise Over IndiGo's Temporary Regulatory Exemption

Captain Anil Rao of ALPA India raises alarm over DGCA's temporary exemption to IndiGo from FDTL norms, citing safety risks. Amid mounting flight delays and cancellations, Civil Aviation Minister criticizes IndiGo's crew mismanagement. A high-level review is underway, with IndiGo facing governmental scrutiny over operational practices.

Captain Anil Rao, General Secretary of the Airline Pilots' Association (ALPA) India, has voiced serious safety concerns regarding a temporary exemption granted to IndiGo by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) from specific Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms. In an interview with ANI, Rao emphasized the need for transparency in revealing the reasons behind significant flight delays and cancellations, warning that the exemption might jeopardize flight safety.

Rao highlighted the disparity in regulations, pointing out that while IndiGo receives certain leniencies, other operators continue to adhere to standard FDTL rules. This deviation, he argues, potentially endangers passenger safety and lacks adequate justification. The DGCA has already set up a panel to investigate the circumstances surrounding this exemption, indicating a review is imminent.

The Civil Aviation Ministry, led by Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, attributed the disruptions primarily to crew mismanagement by IndiGo, which failed to adapt to the new FDTL regulations introduced by the DGCA as of November 1. While other airlines have complied, IndiGo's operations saw a steep decline in on-time performance, necessitating governmental intervention. A comprehensive review involving high-level officials aims to rectify the situation, ensuring no compromise on flight safety standards.

(With inputs from agencies.)