DGCA Dismisses Four IndiGo Flight Inspectors Over Lapses in Operational Oversight
Aviation regulator deploys special oversight teams as airline faces mass flight cancellations amid FDTL rule compliance issues
New Delhi, Dec 12 : The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has dismissed four flight inspectors tasked with monitoring safety and operational standards at IndiGo, citing negligence in performing their duties. The move comes amid a mounting crisis at India’s largest private airline, which has witnessed thousands of flight cancellations this month, causing widespread passenger disruption.
DGCA officials have deployed two special oversight teams at IndiGo’s Gurugram office to closely monitor operations. One team is focusing on fleet strength, pilot availability, crew duty hours, training schedules, and unplanned leaves, while the second team is assessing passenger impact, including refunds, compensation under Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR), on time performance, baggage return, and overall flight cancellations.
The regulatory action follows concerns that IndiGo failed to meet stricter safety norms under the Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules. In response, the government has ordered the airline to reduce its daily operations by 10 percent, impacting over 200 flights, to stabilise schedules and prevent further disruptions.
IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers has been summoned by the DGCA for further discussions on operational recovery. Meanwhile, the airline has announced compensation for passengers affected by cancellations between December 3 and 5, offering vouchers worth Rs 10,000 per affected traveller.
