IndiGo Works to Stabilise Operations as Mass Cancellations Disrupt Indian Airports

New Delhi – IndiGo entered its third day of large-scale operational disruption as airports across India continued to face congestion and delays.

The airline is working to stabilise its schedules after hundreds of flights were cancelled this week, affecting major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Pune.

Despite the turbulence, the situation is beginning to draw attention to IndiGo’s broader strengths, including its large fleet, deep market presence and reputation for fast operational recovery.

The airline commands a significant majority of the domestic market, giving it both the capacity and experience needed to bounce back from the current wave of cancellations.

At least 175 flights were cancelled on Thursday, following over 150 the previous day, leaving passengers frustrated and prompting calls for clarity.

IndiGo’s rostering challenges stem from recently implemented government flight-duty regulations designed to enhance pilot safety and well-being.

The new rules increase mandatory weekly rest hours for pilots and limit the number of night-time landings allowed each week.

While the transition has intensified short-term pressure on airlines, the long-term goal remains improved working conditions and safer aviation standards.

IndiGo has acknowledged that adapting to these rules has contributed to scheduling gaps and operational strain.

However, the airline maintains that teams across departments are now working together to restore normalcy in a controlled and phased manner.

Other carriers such as Air India, Akasa Air and SpiceJet have not faced the same level of cancellations, though they too must align with the updated regulations.

Industry observers say IndiGo’s unusually large network and high flight frequency amplify the impact of constraints when adjustments are not immediate.

Officials from India’s civil aviation regulator are expected to meet IndiGo’s leadership to assess the recovery plan and the timeline for stabilisation.

Such consultations generally help streamline procedures and ensure compliance across the sector without long delays for passengers.

Airports in Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai reported dozens of cancellations on Thursday alone, adding pressure on ground staff and airport management.

Nonetheless, the airline’s established infrastructure and strong on-ground coordination are expected to support a gradual return to normal schedules.

In one instance, passengers arriving in Pune on Wednesday night reportedly remained onboard for several hours due to operational permissions and traffic delays.

Incidents like these underscore the strain on airport resources when multiple flight plans shift simultaneously.

IndiGo, with a fleet of more than 400 aircraft and over 2,000 flights daily, has earned its position as a trusted carrier through consistent performance over two decades.

Its concept of “IndiGo Standard Time”—referencing punctual service—remains a core part of its identity and a benchmark it aims to restore quickly.

Analysts believe that while the current setback is significant, IndiGo’s operational experience and financial strength provide a stable base for recovery.

The carrier recorded around $9 billion in revenue in the previous financial year, reflecting strong demand and efficient long-term growth.

In the broader context, India’s civil aviation sector continues to expand rapidly, with passenger traffic rising and fleet additions across airlines.

Temporary disruptions, while challenging, are likely to be absorbed as aviation infrastructure evolves and regulatory shifts settle.

As normal operations resume, IndiGo’s priority will be rebuilding passenger confidence and ensuring smoother transitions under the revised aviation safety norms.

The airline’s leadership has indicated that service reliability, safety and customer experience will remain at the forefront of its recovery efforts.