New Delhi: IndiGo continued to face operational disruptions for the fifth consecutive day on Saturday, with 405 domestic flights cancelled due to an unexpected pilot shortage. Minister of State for Civil Aviation Mridul Mohol said the government is working “with full urgency to restore normalcy” as thousands of passengers faced difficulties at airports across the country.
“The Central Government has taken very serious note of the inconvenience caused to passengers due to the disruption in IndiGo’s services. The FDTL (Flight Duty Time Limitations) orders of the DGCA have been placed in abeyance with immediate effect. All necessary actions are being undertaken without compromising air safety and with the foremost priority of safeguarding passengers’ interests,” Mohol stated.
A 24×7 control room has been set up for real-time monitoring, and a high-level inquiry into the disruption has been ordered to identify accountability and prevent future crises. Mohol expressed confidence that flight operations will stabilise in the coming days.
Passenger Support Measures and Alternative Arrangements
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said airlines have been instructed to provide regular updates through enhanced online systems so passengers can track flight status from home. In case of cancellations, full refunds will be issued automatically, and stranded passengers will receive hotel accommodation arranged by the airlines.
Indian Railways is also assisting affected passengers by adding 116 extra coaches across 37 premium trains, covering 114 additional trips nationwide to manage the surge in demand.
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