Why is IndiGo canceling so many flights?

IndiGo is canceling flights due to a severe shortage of pilots, exacerbated by new rest rules.

What action is the DGCA taking against IndiGo?

The DGCA may ask IndiGo to reduce its flight frequencies and has summoned airline officials.

When will IndiGo have more pilots?

IndiGo expects to have more pilots available for its full flight schedule in the next three months.

Home / Business and Economy / IndiGo Crisis: Regulator May Slash Flight Frequencies

IndiGo Crisis: Regulator May Slash Flight Frequencies

8 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Over 5,000 IndiGo flights canceled due to pilot shortage in December.
Regulator may force IndiGo to reduce flight frequencies until February.
New pilot rest rules, implemented in phases, triggered the crisis.

IndiGo Crisis: Regulator May Slash Flight Frequencies

India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) may mandate a reduction in IndiGo's flight frequencies until February, as the airline grapples with a critical pilot shortage. This issue has led to the cancellation of over 5,000 flights in December alone. The airline is expected to present a detailed plan on managing its operations with the current pilot strength.

The severe disruptions are attributed to new pilot rest rules implemented in two phases, which IndiGo claims it miscalculated in terms of required pilot numbers. The rules, which cap pilot landings during specific night hours, were enforced despite airline lobbying for further deferment. IndiGo expects to increase its available pilots within the next three months.

In response to the widespread flight cancellations and passenger inconvenience, the DGCA has also capped airfares. Other carriers, including Air India, have been directed to increase their flight operations and utilize wide-body aircraft on domestic routes to compensate for IndiGo's reduced capacity and manage passenger demand.