DGCA Launches Review to Tackle IndiGo's Major Flight Disruptions

Aviation watchdog DGCA has formed a committee to address severe flight disruptions by IndiGo. This panel will evaluate operational shortcomings and suggest improvements. Preliminary findings point to oversight failures and compliance issues leading to massive cancellations, with IndiGo acknowledging gaps in crew planning and regulatory compliance.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has assembled a four-member panel to conduct a thorough investigation into the causes of widespread flight disruptions experienced by IndiGo. This move is part of a strategic effort to improve regulatory enforcement and strengthen institutional mechanisms.

Key individuals in the panel include Joint Director General Sanjay K Bramhane and Deputy Director General Amit Gupta, who are tasked with delivering the committee's findings to the DGCA within a 15-day timeframe. Initial insights reveal that the disruptions were due to lapses in internal oversight and compliance planning of flight operations.

In subsequent discussions with the DGCA, IndiGo admitted its inability to ensure sufficient crew availability and effective roster management under new Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) rules, leading to a massive surge in flight cancellations. These disruptions affected over 170 flights daily, highlighting the urgent need for operational reforms.

(With inputs from agencies.)