The action follows a disruption between December 3 and 5, 2025, when 2,507 IndiGo flights were cancelled and 1,852 flights delayed, affecting more than three lakh passengers across the country. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) directed DGCA to investigate the matter, prompting the formation of a four-member inquiry committee.

The committee identified four key reasons for the operational failure:

1. Overuse of resources, including crew and aircraft

2. Lack of preparation as per regulatory rules

3. Software and system inefficiencies

4. Weak operational structure and control

The investigation revealed that IndiGo overextended its crew and aircraft resources, implemented the revised FDTL rules incorrectly, and lacked contingency planning for emergencies. Practices such as dead-heading, tail swaps, long duty hours, and short rest periods were cited as contributing factors that strained operations and led to mass flight cancellations.

DGCA has also taken action against senior officials of InterGlobe Aviation, IndiGo’s parent company. The CEO received a caution, the Accountable Manager (COO) was warned, and the Senior Vice President was removed from operational duties. Warnings were issued to the Deputy Head of Flight Operations, AVP Crew Resource Planning, and Director of Flight Operations for lapses in manpower and operational planning. DGCA has instructed the airline to take further action and submit a status report promptly.

This fine comes amid growing scrutiny of IndiGo, which commands approximately 63% of the Indian aviation market. In addition to operational penalties, DGCA has requested IndiGo, along with Air India, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, to submit detailed reports of average fares collected in December 2025, after the airline faced a severe pilot shortage that forced suspension of many scheduled flights.

DGCA emphasized that passenger safety and convenience cannot be compromised, and warned airlines to ensure compliance with regulations, robust operational planning, and responsible management to prevent similar incidents