India’s largest airline, IndiGo, continues to face massive operational turbulence as widespread delays and cancellations entered the fourth consecutive day on Friday, December 5, 2025. What began as scattered disruptions has now escalated into one of the biggest network-wide breakdowns the carrier has experienced in recent years.
Delhi: All IndiGo Departures Cancelled Till Midnight
In an unprecedented move, Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) suspended all IndiGo departures until midnight. The announcement left thousands of passengers stranded with little clarity, long queues, and mounting frustration across terminals.
The cancellations follow significant crew shortages and operational constraints linked to new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms that restrict late-night flying.
Bengaluru: 102 Flights Cancelled in a Single Morning
Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport was equally affected, with 102 IndiGo flights cancelled early Friday alone.
Several incoming flights were also delayed or rerouted, intensifying congestion on the ground.
IndiGo Warns: More Cuts From December 8
To stabilise operations, IndiGo has informed the DGCA that it will curtail flight schedules from December 8, expecting delays and cancellations to continue for the next 2–3 days.
The carrier told regulators that its flight operations will be fully normal only by February 10, 2026.
Airline Seeks Exemption From Night-Flying Norms
IndiGo has asked the DGCA for temporary exemption from the newly enforced rules restricting night-time landings.
To secure this relief, IndiGo must submit:
- A detailed recruitment roadmap for pilots and cabin crew
- Information on upcoming aircraft inductions
- Plans for training, rostering, and fatigue management
The regulator is currently reviewing the airline’s request.
IndiGo Issues Public Apology
Later in the evening, IndiGo posted an apology on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledging the “widespread disruption across its network.”
The airline said it is working closely with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), DGCA, BCAS, AAI, and airport authorities to restore normalcy and reduce the cascading delays.
Despite these assurances, passengers across India continue to face cancelled flights, lost connections, and long waiting hours—marking one of IndiGo’s most disruptive operational phases in recent memory.
