New Delhi: The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) on Friday issued urgent directions to all domestic airlines, with a special focus on IndiGo, to restore normalcy in flight operations amid widespread delays and cancellations across major airports.
The intervention, conveyed through two formal orders, mandates that flight schedules stabilise by midnight, with full restoration expected over the next few days.
According to the Ministry, airlines must ensure real-time updates so passengers can track delays from home through strengthened information systems. IndiGo has also been directed to offer automatic full refunds for cancelled flights, removing the need for manual claims.
Additionally, hotel accommodations are being arranged for stranded travellers, while refreshments and essential support will be provided to those facing prolonged delays.
Special assistance for senior citizens has been mandated, including guaranteed lounge access, priority handling and measures to ensure zero inconvenience. MoCA has also activated a 24×7 monitoring control room to coordinate with airlines and airport operators in real time.
Amid the ongoing operational crisis, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has granted IndiGo a one-time temporary exemption from specific Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules for its A320 fleet, valid until 10 February 2026.
The regulator said the relief is in the public interest but warned it could be withdrawn if safety is compromised.
With queues and congestion building at airports in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, the next 24-48 hours will be crucial as the government attempts to break the cycle of delays and restore network stability.
