Aviation Duopoly Sparks Demand for Market Diversity Amidst IndiGo Flight Fiasco

Amid IndiGo's mass flight cancellations, AAP MP Raghav Chadha criticizes the aviation duopoly in India, urging the government to invite more companies into the sector. He highlights IndiGo's substantial market share, alleging it leads to challenges for passengers and gives the airline undue influence over government policies.

Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha has raised concerns over the duopoly in India's aviation industry, particularly spotlighting IndiGo's dominant market position following a recent crisis in flight cancellations.

In an interview with ANI, Chadha remarked on IndiGo's extensive market share, claiming it affords the airline significant leverage, or 'blackmailing power,' against both the government and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Chadha previously addressed Parliament about rising airport food costs, escalating ticket prices, and the monopolistic tendencies within the sector, now compounded by IndiGo and Air India's dominance.

The chaotic situation emerged as IndiGo faced widespread flight disruptions due to a shortage of pilots and crew, triggered by revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms. The lack of immediate compliance with these norms resulted in customer inconveniences and heightened fares with other airlines.

Despite ample preparation time, Chadha criticized the DGCA's failure to enforce the new rules sooner, noting the financial and operational costs involved. He urged the government to increase market competition by allowing new entities to enter the aviation field, thus alleviating consumer woes.

Meanwhile, in court proceedings, a public interest litigation on mass cancellations was linked to an ongoing case, while IndiGo estimated resultant compensations to exceed Rs 500 crore.

(With inputs from agencies.)