IndiGo Crisis: Aviation Minister Naidu to address Lok Sabha amid operational recovery

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu will take up the ongoing IndiGo crisis in the Lok Sabha at 12 pm today, a day after he presented his views on the issue in the Rajya Sabha.

Passenger concerns amid delays and cancellations

The discussion comes as IndiGo continues to face widespread delays and cancellations, resulting in passengers being left waiting at airports across the country.

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Government emphasises safety and regulatory compliance

Meanwhile, addressing the ongoing crisis in the Rajya Sabha, the Union Civil Aviation Minister clarified that the passenger issues were a result of the airline’s internal crew rostering and operational planning, rather than the Aircraft Maintenance and Scheduling System (AMSS).

Reaffirming that “safety cannot be compromised,” the Aviation Minister told the Rajya Sabha that strong Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs) are designed to protect passengers facing delays or cancellations.

“For passengers affected by delays and cancellations, strict Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs) have been established, and all airline operators are required to comply with them.”

“We have ordered an inquiry into the software issue. The sector is constantly evolving technologically, and the government’s goal is to achieve world-class standards in aviation,” he said.

Naidu said IndiGo’s issues arise from its own crew rostering and operational planning. He added that detailed consultations on FTTL guidelines have been completed and reiterated that safety is non-negotiable.

Government action and industry support

Naidu said the government is taking the matter seriously and warned that strict action will follow any non-compliance. He also noted the government’s push to attract more operators into the aviation sector.

Answering Rajya Sabha member M. Thambi Durai, who highlighted issues with prolonged delays and costly tickets, the Union Minister conveyed his apologies for the disruption.

Naidu said more than 5 lakh PNR cancellations were reported, with Rs 569 crore paid to affected passengers. The government has capped fares, implemented four pricing slabs, and taken firm action against violations to curb unreasonable fare hikes.

IndiGo confirmed a major operational rebound on Monday, scheduling over 1,800 flights after several days of disruptions. A press release stated that the airline has restored connectivity across its network and reduced cancellations through tighter planning and operational improvements.