India's leading airline IndiGo has sought a temporary exemption from certain Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) regulations for its Airbus A320 fleet, citing a significant surge in flight cancellations and operational disruptions. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is currently reviewing the airline's request, which aims to ensure operational stability by February 2026.
During a recent review meeting, IndiGo acknowledged miscalculations related to crew requirements under new fatigue management rules introduced in phases during late 2025. The airline reported that flight cancellations have risen to between 170 and 200 per day, and attributed these issues to transitional challenges and seasonal factors.
The DGCA inspection identified inadequate passenger-handling staffing at major airports, leading to directives for IndiGo to bolster ground personnel and improve passenger support services. The regulator has mandated a comprehensive plan from IndiGo, covering crew recruitment, training, roster restructuring, safety assessments, and routine progress reporting to address operational gaps.
These developments highlight the ongoing struggles within India's aviation sector to manage rapid operational changes and maintain service quality amid widespread disruptions. The situation remains fluid as authorities and the airline work toward stabilizing schedules and passenger service.
