IndiGo Crisis Explained: Pilot Shortages, New Rules And The Collapse Of India’s Flight Schedules

IndiGo Airlines has plunged into nationwide chaos after new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules by the DGCA triggered massive pilot shortages. The airline cancelled hundreds of flights, crippling India’s aviation network, as IndiGo controls over 65% of the domestic market. Airports saw long queues, baggage pile-ups and stranded passengers missing weddings, interviews and medical appointments. The crisis erupted on 1 November when stricter rest and night-flying limits took effect, exposing IndiGo’s poor planning and lean staffing model. The DGCA has now given temporary relaxation on night-duty norms until February 2026 and ordered IndiGo to submit regular recovery plans.