IndiGo Flight Crisis Deepens: 14,000 Cancellations in 30 Days as Operational Stress Intensifies

Updated on December 5, 2025

India’s largest airline, IndiGo, is facing one of the most turbulent phases in its operational history. What began as minor delays just weeks ago has now escalated into a full-blown network-wide disruption, creating unprecedented challenges for the carrier and severe inconvenience for passengers. Over the past 30 days, IndiGo has cancelled more than 14,000 flights, leading to widespread frustration at major airports including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

With the disruption worsening daily, the airline has officially informed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) that it will further scale down operations until December 8. As a result, reduced flight frequencies, last-minute cancellations, and rescheduling have become unavoidable realities for travellers.

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IndiGo Confirms Long Recovery Timeline: Full Services Only by February 10, 2026

In a major development, IndiGo has stated that its operations will return to full capacity only by February 10, 2026. This extended recovery window indicates the depth of the operational stress the airline is currently battling.

Why IndiGo Is Struggling

Several internal and external factors seem to be contributing to the crisis:

• Crew shortages and fatigue management challenges
• High aircraft utilisation leading to cascading delays
• Maintenance backlogs amid record passenger demand
• Congestion across India’s busiest airports

These issues together have created a domino effect, pushing the airline into a sustained period of instability.

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Government Steps In: DGCA & Aviation Ministry Summon IndiGo Leadership

The escalating situation has prompted strong intervention from aviation authorities. The Civil Aviation Ministry and the DGCA have summoned IndiGo’s senior leadership for a detailed review meeting. The discussions are expected to focus on:

• Restoration timelines
• Compliance with safety and scheduling guidelines
• Passenger compensation and refund processes
• Steps to prevent further large-scale cancellations

Authorities have emphasised that passenger interests must remain top priority, especially as peak festive and holiday travel seasons approach.

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Impact on Travellers Across India

The ripple effect of IndiGo’s operational crisis has been felt nationwide. Passengers have reported:

• Long queues at customer service counters
• Hours-long delays
• Sudden cancellations without adequate notice
• Difficulty rebooking due to high demand
• Rising airfares on alternative carriers

For many, the situation has led to missed business meetings, disrupted holiday plans, and increased travel anxiety.

Travel analysts warn that unless operations stabilise soon, overall domestic air travel capacity may remain tight, pushing fares even higher.

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What Passengers Should Do During IndiGo’s Disruptions

If you are scheduled to travel with IndiGo over the next few weeks, here are some essential tips:

• Check flight status frequently — even up to 2–3 hours before departure.
• Opt for web check-in to avoid airport rush.
• Arrive early, as long queues are expected.
• Keep multiple travel options ready, especially on busy routes.
• Claim refunds or alternative flights promptly in case of cancellations.

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The Road Ahead for IndiGo

As India’s largest carrier by fleet size and passenger volume, IndiGo plays a critical role in the country’s aviation ecosystem. The ongoing crisis not only affects the airline but also impacts airport operations, tourism, business travel, and overall capacity in the domestic market.

With the airline scaling back operations until December 8 and projecting full recovery only by February 10, 2026, the coming months will be crucial. Passengers, aviation authorities, and industry stakeholders will be watching closely as IndiGo attempts to stabilise and restore confidence in its network.