IndiGo’s delayed preparation for new FDTL norms triggers mass flight cancellations

IndiGo’s delayed preparation for new FDTL norms triggers mass flight cancellations

IndiGo was aware of the new Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms from early 2024 and had over a year to prepare before full enforcement in November 2025. Yet, the airline failed to adequately adjust crew rosters and hiring, resulting in pilots working without sufficient rest and triggering widespread flight cancellations, sources said.

IndiGo is facing a severe operational crisis as it struggles to comply with the new Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) norms. The airline, which dominates roughly 60 percent of India’s domestic market, has been forced to cancel hundreds of flights in the past week, leaving passengers stranded across major airports.

“IndiGo was given nearly two years to prepare for the new FDTL norms, but the airline did not implement the necessary adjustments. Pilots were operating without sufficient rest, which contributed to the widespread cancellations,” a source familiar with the matter told Moneycontrol.

Sources said despite this transition period, the airline failed to hire sufficient pilots and properly adjust crew rosters to meet the stricter rest requirements.

“Even with advance notice, IndiGo’s crew planning did not match the requirements of the new regulations,” a senior industry analyst said, highlighting the operational challenges faced by the airline.

The phased FDTL norms were introduced to prevent pilot fatigue and improve flight safety. While the rules provided a transition window, IndiGo’s inability to fully adjust reflects the challenges of balancing rapid fleet expansion with regulatory compliance.

DGCA probe

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has opened an investigation into IndiGo’s crisis and asked the airline to submit a detailed mitigation plan. IndiGo has informed the regulator that additional cancellations are expected over the next 2–3 days as part of a “schedule stabilisation” exercise, signalling that normal operations may take several days to resume fully.

Passenger impact

On-time performance has taken a severe hit. At Bengaluru airport alone, 73 flights were cancelled, highlighting the scale of disruption caused by crew shortages and scheduling challenges.

Thousands of passengers have been affected, with complaints of delays, lost baggage, and poor communication.