IndiGo Under CCI Scrutiny: Unfair Practices Unveiled

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has initiated a detailed investigation into IndiGo's alleged unfair business practices after numerous flight cancellations. The probe focuses on the airline's dominant position and its impact on competition, following complaints about significant operational disruptions in December that affected millions of passengers.

On Wednesday, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) launched a comprehensive probe into IndiGo over allegations of unfair business practices. This move comes nearly two months after the airline canceled thousands of flights, creating hardships for passengers nationwide.

The CCI considers that IndiGo might have abused its dominant position, withholding services and artificially limiting consumer access to air travel during times of high demand. The decision for a detailed investigation was prompted by substantial data from the aviation sector and passenger complaints.

With a market share often exceeding 60% of domestic air traffic, IndiGo's influence in the aviation industry is significant. Despite objections, CCI's authority to investigate such matters was upheld, citing a Supreme Court ruling. Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been monitoring operational aspects but does not conduct competitive analyses.

(With inputs from agencies.)