What the Ministry Has Directed
The ministry has ordered airlines to provide accurate, regular updates through enhanced online information systems so passengers can track flight status from home. In the event of cancellations, carriers must issue automatic full refunds without requiring passengers to request them, the statement said.
For travellers stranded overnight, airlines are instructed to arrange hotel accommodation directly. The ministry has also directed special care for vulnerable groups: senior citizens and differently-abled passengers will receive priority lounge access and dedicated assistance. All affected passengers are to be provided refreshments and essential services while waiting for onward travel.
To ensure swift problem resolution, the ministry has established a 24×7 control room (011-24610843, 011-24693963, 096503-91859) to monitor the situation and facilitate coordination between airports, airlines and regulators.
DGCA Orders in Abeyance Why and What It Means
The FDTL norms designed to improve crew rest and flight safety by prescribing duty and rest limits for pilots and cabin crew were central to the recent staffing and rostering changes across airlines. By placing the orders in abeyance, the ministry intends to provide immediate operational flexibility so carriers can stabilise services while ensuring safety is not compromised, the minister said.
Industry stakeholders and pilot unions have reacted strongly in recent days: while regulators emphasise safety-first implementation, the ministry’s temporary abeyance is framed as a short-term relief to protect passengers during a peak travel period. The DGCA continues to oversee safety and will work with airlines to restructure rosters and restore compliance in a phased manner. For official DGCA guidelines, readers may visit the regulator’s website at dgca.gov.in.
High-Level Inquiry and Accountability
The government has ordered a high-level inquiry into the disruption to find out what went wrong at IndiGo, identify accountability where required, and recommend systemic fixes to prevent recurrence. The inquiry will examine operational planning, crew rostering, communication with passengers, and other factors that contributed to the breakdown.
“We will determine accountability and recommend measures so passengers do not face such hardships again,” the minister said, stressing that the probe aims to strengthen the aviation system rather than single out employees unfairly.
Passenger Remedies and Next Steps
Passengers affected by cancellations and delays are being urged to use airlines’ online platforms for updated flight information. The ministry’s control room will assist with escalations and coordination. Airlines have been told to prioritise rebooking, refunds and accommodation and to maintain transparent communication with travellers.
The ministry’s assurance of rapid operational stabilisation “beginning to stabilise by tomorrow” and full restoration within three days will be closely watched by travellers and regulators alike. Industry analysts say restoring public confidence will require consistent on-ground delivery of the relief measures and clear timelines from carriers.
