Thousands of travellers stranded in India as IndiGo airline cancels flights

In December 2025, IndiGo, India's largest airline, cancelled thousands of flights, stranding travelers throughout the country. The cancellations stemmed from the airline's failure to adequately prepare for new regulations regarding pilot working hours. The new rules created scheduling conflicts that IndiGo was unable to resolve, leading to widespread disruptions. As a result, numerous passengers experienced travel delays and were left without transportation. The airline has not yet released details on how it will compensate or rebook affected passengers.

IndiGo, India's largest airline, has cancelled over 2,000 flights since December 2nd, 2025, stranding thousands of passengers across the country. The mass cancellations stem from pilot shortages, which the airline attributes to its failure to adapt to new government regulations regarding pilot rest and duty rules implemented earlier in the year. The disruptions, impacting cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, and New Delhi, have led to public outcry and government intervention, including exemptions to the new regulations. While IndiGo aims to normalize operations by December 10-15, the crisis marks a significant setback for the airline.

IndiGo, India's largest airline, has cancelled hundreds of flights, causing widespread travel chaos across the country during a busy travel season. The disruptions stem from pilot shortages and the airline's failure to adapt to new crew rostering rules mandating more rest hours. Thousands of passengers are stranded, particularly in Delhi, with IndiGo projecting normalcy only by February 10th and reducing flight operations starting December 8th. The government is monitoring the situation and has expressed displeasure, with the aviation regulator directing IndiGo to submit a plan addressing crew recruitment and training. While local media reports suggest a temporary waiver on pilot rest rules, the Airline Pilots Association of India has criticized any easing of regulations, citing safety concerns. IndiGo is offering waivers for cancellations and rescheduling between December 5th and 15th, along with accommodation and food for affected passengers.