DGCA action on IndiGo: Four IndiGo flight inspectors suspended, CEO Albers appeared in court a day earlier; find out more

IndiGo, India's largest and the world's fifth-largest airline, has been facing the most difficult period in its history over the past few days. Operating approximately 2,300 flights daily and commanding over 60% of the domestic aviation market, the airline's market cap has declined by approximately ₹21,000 crore since the current crisis. Meanwhile, on the 11th day of IndiGo's operational crisis, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken a major step. The DGCA has suspended four flight inspectors.

This action by the DGCA comes after IndiGo announced additional compensation for passengers affected by the recent crisis on Thursday, following refunds. IndiGo CEO Peter Elbers appeared before the DGCA for the second time on Thursday. It's worth noting that IndiGo also cancelled 54 flights from Bengaluru Airport on Friday, including 31 arrivals and 23 departures. Earlier on Thursday, more than 200 flights from Delhi and Bengaluru were cancelled.

DGCA Intensifies Investigation

Meanwhile, the DGCA has intensified its investigation amid the IndiGo crisis. Officials are stationed at the airline's headquarters and are monitoring operations. The investigation committee includes Joint Director General Sanjay Brahmane, Deputy Director General Amit Gupta, Senior FOI Kapil Manglik, and FOI Lokesh Rampal. The committee's task is to identify the causes of the massive operational disruptions at IndiGo.

DGCA Prepares for a Thorough Investigation

The committee will also review the airline's human resource planning, fluctuating roster system, and pilots' adherence to the new duty period and rest rules, which came into effect on November 1. The DGCA has made it absolutely clear that it will thoroughly investigate all aspects to get to the root of the shortcomings in airline operations.

The airline announced compensation.

It is noteworthy that earlier on Thursday, IndiGo, the country's largest airline, announced additional compensation for passengers affected by the recent crisis, following refunds. However, this relief will only be available to select passengers. IndiGo stated that if passengers purchased their tickets through a travel partner platform, all refund procedures have been initiated. However, the airline does not have complete information on such passengers in its system. In such cases, passengers can provide information to IndiGo's email address: customer.experience@goindigo.in. We will continue to assist them.

IndiGo further stated that passengers travelling with the airline on December 3, 4, and 5 had a poor experience and were stranded at the airport for several hours. Many of them were severely affected by the massive crowds. We will provide travel vouchers worth ₹10,000 to these affected passengers. These vouchers can be used for any travel with IndiGo within the next 12 months.