Before the new Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) regulations went into full effect in November 2025, IndiGo had more than a year to be ready. The company was aware of the new regulations since early in the year.
However, the airline did not make the necessary adjustments to staff rosters and recruiting, which led to pilots working without enough rest and causing several flight cancellations, according to sources.
Due to its inability to adhere to the new Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) regulations, IndiGo is experiencing a serious operational issue. Over the last week, the airline, which accounts for around 60% of India’s domestic market, has had to cancel hundreds of flights, leaving customers stranded at key airports.
“IndiGo had over two years to be ready for the new FDTL regulations, but the airline failed to make the required changes. A person with knowledge of the situation told Moneycontrol that pilots were working without getting enough sleep, which led to the many cancellations.
According to sources, the airline failed to acquire enough pilots and appropriately modify staff rosters to comply with the more stringent rest standards during this changeover time.
“Even with prior warning, IndiGo’s staff preparation did not meet the needs of the new laws,” a top industry expert said, emphasizing the airline’s operating difficulties.
The purpose of the phased FDTL regulations was to enhance flight safety and avoid pilot fatigue. Although the regulations offered a window for transition, IndiGo’s incapacity to completely adapt illustrates the difficulties in striking a balance between rapid fleet growth and legal compliance.
DGCA probe
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has requested that IndiGo submit a comprehensive mitigation plan and has initiated an inquiry into the airline’s situation. As part of a “schedule stabilization” exercise, IndiGo has notified the regulator that further cancellations are anticipated over the next two to three days, indicating that it would take a few days for regular operations to completely return.
Impact on passengers
Performance that is on time has suffered greatly. 73 flights were canceled at Bengaluru airport alone, demonstrating the extent of the disruption brought on by staff shortages and scheduling issues.
There have been complaints of delays, misplaced luggage, and inadequate communication from thousands of travelers.
