The decision comes after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) ordered a cut in IndiGo’s winter schedule to address delays and cancellations caused by dense winter fog across North India. Airport slots, which grant airlines specific time permissions for take-off and landing, are limited and in high demand, especially at major hubs.
“Reducing the schedule will help improve the airline’s On-Time Performance (OTP) and minimize inconvenience to passengers,” the ministry stated. The measure aims to streamline operations during the peak winter season when fog significantly hampers visibility and disrupts flight schedules.
IndiGo, which commands over 60% of India’s domestic air travel market, has been facing multiple operational challenges in recent months. These include crew shortages, grounding of aircraft due to supply chain constraints, and weather-related disruptions. The DGCA’s intervention is viewed as a necessary step to ensure smoother operations and maintain passenger safety.
The slot reductions affect both major and smaller airports. Besides Mumbai and Delhi, airports in Goa, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Srinagar, Patna, Ranchi, and Raipur have also seen reduced slots. This will temporarily limit flight options for passengers on certain routes but is not expected to compromise overall domestic air capacity.
Industry analysts note that the vacated slots provide opportunities for other carriers to expand their operations. Airlines such as Air India, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet are expected to benefit, allowing them to strengthen their networks and meet rising travel demand during the winter season.
The DGCA has emphasized that such schedule adjustments are part of broader efforts to maintain operational efficiency in India’s growing aviation sector. “These steps are being taken in the interest of passengers to ensure timely departures and arrivals, even in challenging weather conditions,” the ministry said.
With winter travel peaks coinciding with fog-heavy conditions in northern regions, IndiGo’s temporary slot surrender reflects the balancing act between operational feasibility and passenger convenience. The airline has assured that it remains committed to maintaining service standards while adjusting its schedules in line with regulatory directives.
